First off, It was a great experience. I have never been in a facility like that before. You see stuff on TV but you never truly realize what its like until you have been inside one yourself. After seeing the inmates locked up, I know I would never want to be in their situation. Walking above the blocks and watching them below was weird to me almost like watching some caged animals in a testing facility. Which isn't the case, these are human beings. I felt empathy for them but at the same time, if you do the crime you should pay the time. The man heading the tour seemed liked the right man for the job, very cool calm and collected as someone in his position of basically running the jail should be. A strong leader is the vibe I got off him. Overall I really liked the tour it brought a lot of the questions I had up and out which was pretty cool. MuayThaiGuy012
I honestly thought the same thing when the tour started. It was something that I couldn't personal picture in my head. When seeing the prisoners from the one way mirror was pretty cool also. You got to see what it was like what the prisoners do on their time in there. BlackHawks012
I agree, my expectations of how big the pods were and how big the cells were, were way off. I originally thought that the cells would be a couple feet wider, and that the pods would have more wiggle room. But after seeing how quickly someone could pace around the pod it surprised me.–Pasta012
I also agree with you its not bad as people make it seem.they are not caged animals they are normal human beings who made a little mistake who do not need to be in there.i would not send my worst enemy there.shaylavon789
I had an amazing experience from the jail tour. I felt bad for the people that did make a stupid mistake that made them go to jail. On TV you see people in jails acting crazy, but that was not the case there. Now, I want to go to a prison to see the differences between jail and prison. bamboo456
I went on a tour of the county jail when I was in fifth grade. All I remember is getting my finger prints taken and having an ID card made. I was excited to see the jail as an adult. In my mind the jail was going to look like what I've seen on tv. The pods that the inmates share are different then what I expected. I was picturing jail cells with bars on them. I think the pods are much nicer. I liked the man giving the tour. I apologize but I can't remember his name. He was very informative and easy to talk to. The question and answer session at the end of the tour was nice. He went over many things we are covering in class. I never would have thought about what to do with individuals from different gangs or from the same gangs. It makes sense to me to split up gang members so they are less likely to form a group. There is strength in numbers and I can imagine how that might become a problem for correction officers and other inmates. I also thought it was interesting that they have had to come up with new rules regarding social media. There are so many ways to communicate now then there was even ten years ago. I really liked how our guide kept emphasizing the importance of humanity. I don't think I'm a cruel person but my opinion of people in jail was not good. I feel like I've grown a little by this experience. My eyes were opened more when our guide, who is surrounded daily by inmates, said there are bad people in jail but there are also good people who have just made a bad decision. I will try not to be so quick to judge in the future. I didn't enjoy learning that about myself but knowledge is power and I can grow. Overall I think this was a great experience. I learned a lot and I am excited to check out the juvenile detention center. Hadrosaur012
I thought it was a great experience also because you got to see what it is like further on behind those doors and not to have to watch a TV show. Maybe if one of the prisoners came in and talked to us and shared on how they feel about jail would've been an eye opener also. DaBulls456
It was cool to go in and actually see what happens in the jails because the television shows overdramatize the situation a bit where the inmates will yell at you and seem crazy at times. Now maybe they were not acting like that because they did not know we were there but they seemed pretty mild mannered. Overall it was a very informative trip, it taught a lot about that jail, and the other types of jails around the country. Birdman789
This facility was very well maintained and the respect was thrown out quite often through the tour. You do see how their is more of a standard these inmates are held at especially the trustee's. The tv either over dramatizes or fails to deliver what goes on and lacks the back story of the facility. The PCJ is accredited which also helps what we saw as "nicer" than what we see on tv.
From a Criminal Justice standpoint I thought it was a great way of looking on how they can separate everyone from certain crimes they have committed because they actually want to keep the violence down in jail. When someone said they have it worse in jail because I mean it's worse than prison because they don't get the same amount of privileges because jail is to make these criminals realize that it is not a joke. When I was given the tour I was getting a weird as if I was placing my self in the prisoners shoes. It was the greatest vibe because I mean you don't get to see the outside, limited visiting, just sit in a cell all day, and be around the same people 24/7. To me I would go insane because jail is no freedom. I found it interesting on how the prisoners keep themselves entertained because rather they are in their for only a couple months or 6 months it will not obviously be a fun ride. When I arrived at the jail I never thought it would be like as I seen on TV. I thought it would be people in cell blocks trying to get at us. When someone asked about if they split up gangs when they arrive to jail and when the sheriff said they try but they can only do so much. If I was a officer at the jail I would be scared to go in that cell block because you never know what could happen when you walk in their. But overall I thought the tour was excellent and it was a great experience. DaBulls456
I would have to agree with the thinking that the inmates were going to try to get at us. I thought it was just going to be us walking through a bunch of cells like the old days and us being physically next to them and hearing what they are saying. But once I saw how segregated they really are from the world I really started thinking how bad it would be in there. I to agree that it was an excellent tour and great experience that I think everybody needed. ICCRunner789
I agree, It is no joke at all. The whole point of Jail in my opinion is one keep dangerous criminals off the streets, but as we found out not all the people in their are really criminals. They may have made one stupid mistake that landed them in there and hopefully that's all it takes is one visit to not do it again. It was nice that the tour guide emphasized the difference. MuayThaiGuy012
From a Social standpoint I think jail environment was just any other jail because they will get different people of color, race and religion. The prisoners may not like certain people in the jail but they are going have to deal with it for quite a while. When I seen the male and the female side of the jail I saw that some cell pods had only white people, only black people, or maybe a mixer of both. It looked like everyone got a long in jail because they actually became adults and put there differences aside. Does it have to come to the point in today's society that people have to work their way up to put their differences aside and just get a long but there are some that don't at all because of their own beliefs. The jail environment was the weirdest vibe I could ever feel because it was not a pleasant place if I was a criminal in that situation. Even though jail is only going to be a short time to be in there. I believe that jail is a experience that some people can get a good picture of reality because over the course of time everything changes and won't be the same. Rather they don't like certain people in jail it will be something that they will have to deal with on a daily bases because no prisoner get's there way in jail at all. When I went on the tour I thought the sheriff made some good points on the environment of the jail and how how he has seen it from his own point of view. I thought the tour was an experience that I never imagined. BlackHawks012
BlackHawks012, I can certainly see what you mean when it comes to jail, perhaps, encouraging integration between widely differing religions, races, and ethnicities. While this is not the manifest purpose of jail, it is certainly a helpful latent effect. As for the strange atmosphere in the jail, I felt that as well. It was certainly an interesting place to visit but not someplace I would like to live in for any period of time. – Jung012
Going into the jail I thought it would have been much more of an aggressive atmosphere due to what the social media has played it out to be. My first thought going in was that I might see a fight, but I didn't. The facility was really well taken care of and not at all as dirty as what I thought it was going to be. I know there wasn't going to be blood or anything on the ground but it was still a very chill atmosphere from what I saw. Not really much was going on. I remember looking in and seeing the guys playing chess. I thought that was just a joke but they were really playing chess. It wasn't just one group of guys either, it was several. Once I heard that they stay inside that cell for their whole sentence(except for medical reasons and if the sheriff says otherwise) really surprised me. So if you have a six month sentence, you see the same exact setting for the six months. That would drive me absolutely insane just after the first month. I know the main objective is to deter and that is a good way to do it. I would hate to be the women with the smaller cell block. The men have a little bit more room to walk around and stuff to look at. The women had much smaller cells. I know its because they don't have nearly the size population so it makes sense. My question is now, are women more well behaved than men? I mean since there are fewer women in jail/ prison. ICCRunner789
I had thought the same thing about the aggressive atmosphere! But when we talked to the chief about why they are so calm and well behaved, he made sense out of it. The better they behave the more privileges and the sooner they get out. I would think that the women and men behave pretty similar. I am sure there would be fights in both still. This was such an interesting tour and I am so glad that we got to partake in this tour! Storm012
I agree. I think Hollywood likes to dramatize most of the things that they depict. I knew it wouldn't be exactly the same, but honestly I impressed at the respective calm atmosphere in there. I think that there were a few pods that were bigger in the womens side, but they were all in the small ones. This was curious to me. I wondered if they had bigger pods why they didn't put them in there instead. -Jakku012
The jail tour was, by far, one of the most interesting activities we did as a class. It brought the issues of sociology into real life and reinforced them as well as give an interesting perspective on the criminal justice system. I walked into the jail not knowing what to expect. The majority of my image of jails had been influenced by a mixture of Russian gulags, Nazi concentration camps, Stalag 17, The Green Mile, and The Shawshank Redemption. I was presently surprised by the jail we toured. While certainly a place of correction and designed without comfort in mind, it was far from the military-esque prison I had in mind. I was most impressed by our guide’s genuine concern for the inmates and the pains he took to give them as much comfort and privacy as possible under the circumstances.
Looking at the jail from a sociological perspective, it would appear that it is designed to minimize conflict. Men and women are kept out of eyeshot and earshot of each other, reducing any sexual conflict that may occur otherwise. In addition, the jail authorities are careful to mix the population in such a manner as to avoid fights.
While touring the men and women’s blocks I noticed an interesting phenomenon. In the women’s block, different races and ethnicities appeared to congregate together heterogeneously, without concern for these barriers. In the men’s block, causation and black males seems to congregate only with those of like race, more homogenous groups. It would be interesting to study the jail to see if this is an isolated observation or a widespread occurrence.
While jail is a necessary institution, I wonder how much it really helps to reeducate the inmates. Deviant behavior is rooted in breaking society’s rules. While jail may teach the inmates respect, it appears to do little to redirect or eliminate deviant thought processes and convictions. Perhaps, rather than isolating these individuals, we should devise new ways of reeducating and changing their underlying deviant thought processes. – Jung012
Jung012, That's what I was talking about. the reason people continue, is because they don't know any different. They need to be taught! And I don't think its ever to late! If we focus on rehabilitation i.e. school, learning a trade, we would see less recitvism. So in saying this I agree with you! Let's focus on helping instead of just standing by!MITHGTS012
Really enjoyed this breakdown of the tour. Touched on things that I had noticed as well. I got the feel of a high school while walking through the hallways. Probably the painted concrete walls and floors. I also took notice of genuineness of him for the overall health of the inmates. He doesn't want to see them back. He wants to see them become productive members of society. We could probably use more people like him throughout all institutions like this. Purple012
The guide's behavior towards the inmates stood out to me as well. I liked that he seemed to genuinely care about the people he is responsible for taking care of. You bring up an interesting thought about the women interacting with each other no matter what race over the men who seem to stay within their own race. I think the results of a widespread study would be interesting. I agree that more education for the inmates would be helpful so they wouldn't continue their life of crime when they get out of jail. The guide touched on this a little. The jail has the GED program and the food/sanitary program to help inmates but like he said their just isn't enough money for many programs and most of the inmates don't stay long enough for it to be beneficial. Hadrosaur012
I too was very impressed with our tour guide. I liked he used his sociological imagination and put himself in the inmates shoes when deciding certain issues regarding comfort and privacy. I also liked he noted that not all the people in jail are bad people, and sometimes good people just make bad decisions. Crown012
I agree about Mr. Asbell's approach being very humanitarian. He doesn't dole out the punishement, he is only the gatekeeper. I would like to think that all others in his position had the same attitude, but I know better. When we were watching "Do No Harm", we saw clinical proof of how human behavior changes when roles are changed. Even when it was a mock scenario, psychological damage did occur. It would be just as easy for a person with his position to forget his real role in this. OICU8 012
I really enjoyed the visit to the jail. I am glad it was just a visit! I had been to Statesville, with my old criminal justice classes. I noticed that even though everyone is put together, you have your groups. I did like the fact that the person who gave us the tour was all about helping, and wanting to make sure respect is given and received. I just wish there was more focus on rehabilitation. I know that it costs money, but as opposed to housing these guys it would seem to make more sense to spend the money on rehabilitation. The reason for return rate is high is because they are under educated there for cant make money.. so in saying that I feel we should spend more money on rehabilitation than housing them! MITHGTS012
They have been spending a lot on the medical rehabilitation side, but yes they should add more programs. Programs that pin point becoming better as an individual. The medical thing is pin pricked on finding mental illnesses not re making them for the real world. These days its all about saving money I feel and not taking a carful look on reducing recidivism. Music 456
Cool, this tour was excellent but I would love to have the opportunity to visit Statesville and compare the differences in behavior between the two. I also agree with your point more money should be invested into the rehabilitation side more than anything. Most of these people need help and really don't know right from wrong. If they spent more time into trying to help these individuals, the inmates may have a more positive outlook when coming out of the jails. mommy012
I agree with you. I was glad that the tour guide was about respect,responsibility, and integrity. I feel like he really loves his job and the different people he meets. I believe he takes pride in getting to know his inmates and his workers. Its kind of hard to believe that there are still people like that because of the media and the way the are portraying police now.Neverson012
It was not my first time in the jail; I went there last year and both times were fun and informative. Seeing the pods and going in there really lets you get the feel of what the inmate sees and feels like in there. I think I would go insane being in a small pod like the one we went into because there is nothing to do and it is so small. The other thing that would get to me would be the recreational yard which was just a tall room with a chain link fence at the top so you can see a little bit of the sky. After seeing the yard, it was pretty amazing to picture how the two inmates escaped from there. It had very high walls and to think that all the inmates worked together to make a human ladder that high would have been extremely interesting to witness. The superintendent of the jail was very informative, not only did he tell us some detailed history about the jail and knew a lot about the national trends that were going around the country such as the crime rate going down over the past couple years. Birdman789
Im replying just because of the first sentence :) Not mine either. I was received as a 'client' all those years ago. *cough, cough* The stories were great. I particularly like the one about how people would throw things over the fence of the ball diamond. Then those privileges were stripped. Fight with a pillow case, they are gone. After every incident the population acted out there was a big kibosh to follow. Doberman789
This was my first time inside any kind of facility like this (jail, prison, correctional facility) and I did not know what to expect when I decided that I wanted to attend the tour. When we first entered the jail, and were standing around in the area where the blocks were, I started to get a little nervous. I enjoyed the stories and information the chief shared with us. Once we entered above the pods, I was shocked. I thought it would be completely different. For the most part, the people seemed to be enjoying themselves playing card, watching television, and reading books. I was not expecting it to be so laid back. I thought that I would see arguments or them locked up in their little cells unhappy or something, like you see in movies. It just shows how different things are in the media and on the big screen in comparison to how they are in the real world. My favorite part of the tour was the question and answer session at the end. I left with a different perspective on jails. I left more open minded and with new knowledge of what happens in the criminal system. Overall, I very much enjoyed the tour and would love to do it again. Storm012
This was my first time touring a jail also, I expected to see all the chaos that I'd seen on TV but I was really surprised to see how mellow everything was. I liked the pods because you actually get a view of what the inside of a cell looks like. The jail visit was very eye opening I'm glad I got the chance to tour it. Believe012
Visiting the jail was a very good and an eye opening deterrence of crime. I knew prison was confining and you dont have many rights, if any, but being inside was a shocker. The colors were dull, the rooms were cramped, metal beds, bad toilets and horrible smells. The inmates are very restricted in expressing themselves in their rooms with personal belongings. When observing some of them I saw the only things they could do were read, pace, and play chess. There was also a lack of clocks or daylight. The inmates completely loose the sense of time and day. Their outside hangout is a small room with a concrete floor and nothing in it with fence at the top. Jail is just not somewhere I would want to be after being in one. Like the guy said they are a jail not a prison, so they dont really have any programs for the inmates, so its even more restraining. The only connection they have with the outside world is one little tv. I also dont agree with the use of video visits. I understand its more convenient but denying the face to face meet takes a toll on these guys. Yes, its jail but still, they need to see their family. I mean maybe they still do face to face visits? But I still dont agree. I left thinking first of all , how I never ever want to do crime, but as well as a new perspective and understanding the life of a criminal a bit more. Music 456
This jail tour was excellent, and something that I really enjoyed. I was a very interesting experience that I was happy to be a part of. The man speaking did a fantastic job in explaining all of the things that take place in the jail and how the jail functions. Although I'm a dental hygienist major, this information had my full attention. I've never been inside of a jail before yesterday, the only visual that I've had where from television, and it was no where near the same as those jails. I thought their was going to be a lot of tension and commotion going on inside of the pods, but none of that was going on. From a sociological point of view I did have a little empathy for the inmates, they look bored out of their minds, and all their freedom is basically monitored, but I understand this is their punishment. I wouldn't ever want to be in this position, I honestly don't think I would be able to even last taking a shower once a week, being away from my family and having to be around other people that I don't know 24/7. Overall I enjoyed this tour, observing and learning. I would love to be able to visit a prison next, to see the difference in behaviors over the amount of time. Very interesting! mommy012
I agree that it was interesting and very exciting. It was also my first time inside of a jail and I, too was mislead because of the way the media portrays the inside of jails. For example, I went into the tour almost expecting some sort of chaos or altercation to take place, but that was far from occurring. I felt ignorant for having those thoughts once the tour was over. Just because people are in jail, it does not necessarily mean that they are angry people or have nothing better to do than fight. These people are everyday people, for the most part, and it was nice to be reminded of that at this tour since we could see them doing similar activities that we do (playing cards, reading, doing each others' hair, etc.) Cards789
Overall, the jail tour was very eye-opening. Although I thought I had it pretty well figured out what the insides of jails look like considering all of my education and viewing various television programs, I was way wrong! I was shocked to discover that jail was nothing like what I had envisioned. For one, I expected there to be a lot of chaos or fights between people in their pods because television shows often display that type of behavior going on inside jails, but that was something that we did not see any of. In fact, most of the pods that we were able to view looked to be getting along very well and communicating with one another in a friendly way. There were people playing cards, girls doing their hair, some people reading, some people sleeping, but not one single person that we saw was causing chaos or starting problems within the jail. As I stated in my reply to someone who posted, I felt ignorant when I left the jail for thinking that without a doubt a fight would occur. I was severely mistaken. Nothing even close to that happened that we were able to see. I was also shocked at how small the pods were. Although I know the purpose of jail and knew that they were fairly small, I did not know just how confined people in jail are. After this tour, one thing I do know for sure is that I am glad to be studying the jail from the outside in, as opposed to learning about it as an offender, from the inside out. Cards789
I definitely agree the media and t.v. gives us a false outlook on what jail is really like. To see how small the pods are and thinking out staying in there 24/7 for months to even years. Most people would go absolutely crazy being so confined. I also am very grateful for the experience and am happy to be seeing jail from a studying aspect. The thing i'm thinking of now is how this jail differs from others. The bigger and the badder jails would be the ones to shock us even more. It would be very interesting to get the chance to tour another jail or even a prison. Had a great time though and learned a lot. VT012
I agree even with the privileges the inmates do get, I would not want to experience it from the inside out. I also was mistaken about how the tour would end up being. Extreme456
This was an interesting tour. I wasn't sure how i would feel about it. I thought I was prepared for it, but found myself a little nervous. It is intimidating to know you are locked in somewhere and your only way out is for someone to let you out. I can't personally imagine what it must feel like for someone getting booked into jail. They may feel that way but to an even greater extent. They are losing their freedom completely, whereas I was still free and there out of my own choice. The setup isn't what I initially thought it would be. I suppose I had some pretty stereotypical ideas. I really liked the way they are able to treat people there. I say "able" because there are certain things they do, or allow even, that may not always be possible even if they want them to be. For instance, allowing the women to be looked after by female officers only. That's not something that may always be possible. It probably depends on how many women are being held and how many female officers are working. I like that they do what they can though. He really pushed integrity and respect. For everybody, no matter his personal views. That is not an easy task. He suggested we tour the prison in a neighboring town if given the opportunity. I hope one day it will present itself. Purple012
Be honest. You hummed Folsom Prison Blues to yourself once in there. No, ok. Just me. Things I take away from the tour. G.E.D.'s are available while incarcerated. This was encouraging to learn. Although inmates are there for 364 days and a wake up there is a restorative nature to the prison. Through education you can give the inmates necessary tools to 'survive' once they get out. Less chance of recidivism by providing skills. The food service training was also interesting to learn of. I had an opportunity to speak with the Sheriff of the facility we toured. He also had stated the importance of working in corrections before becoming a L.E.O. It creates less of a culture shock when you hit the streets. I hadn't completely bought into the idea of corrections before law enforcement until the jail tour. I do believe its a logical sequence now. I don't believe at this time I want to work in a prison for the remainder of my employable years. This could change if/when it is my means of employment. I do believe its a discipline of the criminal justice system that needs to be experienced first hand. The thing that was most surprising to me is the annual rate of suicides in the prison. Not really something you hear about on the news. Why? Because that doesn't bring in the numbers like chaos. Armed with nothing but a radio! I found this to be a little disturbing. BUT, like I've said in the past....you're only as safe and sound as the guy standing next to you. They are your support system. So its safety in numbers for correction officers. I suppose you have to defend yourself or remove yourself from a situation if it arises. If you can. You are trained to defend yourself in the interim(until the rest of your team gets there). I wonder if a martial art or defense class would be marketable as a C.O. If so, which. The Superintendent was well spoken and versed in criminal justice.. I enjoyed that attribute of the tour. You can tell when someone likes their job,cares for the staff, and 'clients'. Final thought: Nothing like on the movies. No grass and very little natural light. Could this lead to mental health issues? It surprised me that they put inmates with mental health disorders in general population. Higher risk of victimization could occur. I also wonder how many of the offenders locked up could've benefited from a intermediate sanctions such as drug court. 'When I was just a baby, my Mama told me: Son, always be a good boy, don't ever play with guns." Doberman789
The jail tour wasn’t what I expected. But it was cool to get a little insight on what it actually is like on the inside. To see how the conditions are and what they actually do in jail instead of leaving it up to my own imagination and what I’d seen on TV. The pods were really cool what I expected to see was a lot of yelling and maybe a couple of people fighting but the exact opposite was happening. In the male pod everyone was either walking around or watching TV. In the female pod the women were playing cards and talking. I thought it was really eye opening to see what it was like inside the female division and how small their cell spaces were. I thought the schedule and rules for the inmates were a lot better than what they could’ve been. I like how the superintendent explained how the rules worked because I originally thought the inmates didn’t get to do anything but they have simple very simple rules. If they disobey a rule they get a privilege taken away and I think that’s pretty reasonable. I’m glad I got the opportunity to tour the jail. Believe012
I'm very glad I was able to make it to the tour. I think we all have the curiosity of what the inside of a jail looks like and I appreciate the opportunity to go see inside. The booking area was a little different than I expected. It was interesting to see all the different hall ways and rooms. I would easily get lost in there. One hall way did remind me of school which I thought was funny. I thought it was really awesome to go upstairs and see the pods from the cops perspective. It didn't surprise me that people were playing games or walking, but I didn't quit expect there to be a t.v. in the pods. The pods are small when you put 10 people in there for a long period of time. Its a big eyeopener when you realize that these people never leave their pods. They stay in their pods to eat, sleep, shower, go to the bathroom, and even for visits. The fact that visits are done electronically now it huge. This takes away a big social factor between the inmates and their friends or family. While a at the same time it makes it easier to make visits without an appointment. The so called "outside" area was a shock. Its so confined without any real characteristic of the outside world. I wouldn't see why people would go out there except for the change of scenery after being in there for so long. Once you really absorb the fact that these people stay in the same small pod for months to years at a time it really makes you never want to be in that situation. I could definitely see a sociological perspective of the jail when our guide started to tell us of the stringer groups of people. When they know of a close group of people coming in or forming they separate them. People are stronger when in a group and feeding off of peer pressure. If you get people by themselves they become weaker and start to show you who they really are. This keeps a lot of people safe and makes more people think about what they've done and how they plan to fix it. Officers have acquired a bad rep recently due to the media but this visit has shown that they treat everyone equally. The police officers do not wish to see the inmates leave and go back to their old habits, they try their best to teach them and hopefully get them on a better path. VT012
The whole experience was surreal. I was extremely interested, but at the same time I felt a little sad. I understand that they are there for a purpose and to serve time. I guess it was just sad to see so many people with their life on hold. I think the system of the jail was extremely interesting. In a way they have a miniature society in there. They have authority figures, rules and regulations, and people who have gained jobs because of trust.. "trustees". I'm sure there are postitive and negative influences from the people around you in your pods. I thought that the superintendent was really nice and covered all the information and questions very well. I asked him questions about the medical department out of curiosity. (That is my job field). He told me that they intern about 25 nurses a year, which is good for the students and for the jail/inmates. Overall I enjoyed the tour and I was glad we were given the opportunity to visit. -Jakku012
This experience was really eye-opening to me. I did not think it would be as intriguing as it was. I particularly like the part where we got to go into one of the pods and cells to see what living conditions the inmates are living in. They have pretty good conditions for being criminals. It was nothing like I imagined the inside of a jail. I thought for a fact the inmates would be yelling and screaming at us. Starting fights to show off. It was the complete opposite actually. They were walking and hanging out very calmly. There were people watching tv, playing card games, there were even girls doing each others hair. They were not even mad at each other or anyone else. The trustees were doing the jobs they are given in a peaceful manner. I was not expecting this behavior from the inmates. Our tour guide was amazing at explaining the process of booking and processing the inmates to jail. He seemed very calm and collected. It made me realize I am majoring in the right direction. However; it made me rethink what I wanted to be when I am finished with school. I want to be a corrections officer. Extreme456
Honestly I just figured oh it's a jail what I see on TV is what it is and I've seen it all before. But I can honestly say that it was very interesting and an eye opener for me. In a way I started to rethink my major it was that interesting. I am majoring in nursing and I can honestly see myself working in the medical department. What really stood out to me is it wasn't as bad as I thought. The inmates actually had more freedom than I imagined. I'm sure after a while just being in that small space it can get to you. The fact that they do have a tv, games, room to workout, and a phone in there for visitation is love. I imagined just cement and bars and nothing else. I must say that being able to look down into the pics to see the interaction between the inmates was the highlight of the tour. I really got a sense of their daily moments. With them not being able to see us looking into their pods was good as well, just knowing that they weren't able to see the officers moves that watches their every move. I'm glad I was able to make the tour because I almost did not show up. It was very informative and I left with a different outlook on things. Pinky012
Some of the more technical stuff I already knew just from watching TV and hearing about it from people I know who have been there before on both sides of it. However I did not know about how little health care may be available to most people without pouring one of the only major extra sources of money you have into it. Other than the…interesting aroma from the toilets the overall living conditions were much better than expected. But that was one thing we were told as we progressed through, multiple times in multiple ways. It seems that the cleanliness and overall health of the facility and people in it was a source of pride for the people working there. The trustee system was very incentivizing for good behavior; staying out of their cell later, dvd players, and access to cleaner clothes are major perks when that is nearly all you have around you. During the Q&A however I learned why body cameras aren’t so easy to use…money and excessive legislation. Their policy of mental health evaluation and counseling during solitary is something I was very glad to see though, I had never heard of that unless someone was suicidal before. –Pasta012
I was surprised too at what he said it takes to be able to have the body cameras. At the same time you would think that with all of the things surrounding officers in the media right now all the departments would find a way to make it happen. I live in a small town and our officers have them so I'm not sure why the city or jail could not have them. I also recall him saying they have to keep everything that's recorded for a certain amount of time which takes up a lot of space. That must be something in the legislation because I wouldn't see why there would be a need to keep a recording unless something actually happened. I can also definitely see why you would want one being on the officers side too, like he said when an inmate tries to say an officer said or did something they didn't. If most officers are more then willing to have them it just shows the good ones who have nothing to hide and the bad ones who do or have bad intentions. Deacon012
When I fist learned we were going to a jail i wasn't comfortable with the idea because of what i have seen on Beyond Scared Straight and Lock down. I thought that the inmates were going to be crazy or something. I have to say though it was a good experience and great to learn about. One thing I can say is that I will NEVER go to jail. It looks so depressing and not like home. I know its not suppose to be like home,I just wouldn't be able to do it.It didn't look like what i thought it would. For some reason i thought it would be dirty, maybe because a lot of bad people live there or something. Neverson012
I just have to say beyond scared straight is one of the best shows also that is the only real look into a jail I have experienced before the jail tour. The jail is definitely a lot different from home. I thought the jail was very informative and I think of it differently from what I used too. Godzilla012
I think that that was an excellent presentation given to us to see first hand how our culture deals with offenders. It was an awesome tour that I am proud to be apart of. It really opened up my mind on how I thought jail was really like compared to what I seen with my own eyes. However, I did not like how the only real daily face to face communication for the inmates were other inmates. I also did not like seeing that the inmates could not physically see the visitors. I feel like seeing the visitors on a screen is not as good as seeing them in person. And I did hear the man when he said that the technology way is going a lot better then the old way, but we are humans. We need that physical face to face contact with the people we love. Not on a web cam like a long distance relationship over seas. -Ibanez012
I would think that if the prisoners were to see visitor after visitor on tours such as these, or the guards there would be more reason for them to act out; like trying to distract the guard or impress a female visitor. I do agree with you on the physical contact, but only on the conjugal visits. Being a jail and trying to keep all prisoners happy by seeing their families or loved ones has to be nuts maintaining that, similar to what the sheriff said. I don’t agree with only a web-based visiting system so long as all inmates are able to have the chance during those busy times, especially when the jail’s population is almost 700. - StrongArm789
As someone who wants to go into the criminal justice career field it really opened up my eyes. That was the very first jail tour I have taken and I was not too impressed. I thought that after college I would apply at the jail. I have changed my mind after the other day. It was not what I had expected it to be. I would not want to work from a desk watching inmates on cameras during my whole shift. There was no life in and throughout the jail. What I mean is I took the tour at the juvenile detention center and there was murals and uplifting posters on the wall to encourage the teens. I did not see anything like that at the jail. However I did see the 9/11 mural, but that wasn't uplifting. I know jail is suppose to be an adult time out center, but I feel like we should at least try to encourage the people who need it to get their life on track where it should be. -Ibanez789
I learned a lot of very cool things from my trip to the jail. It was, in a way very sobering to be there. Jail is not at all like it is depicted in movies or T.V. shows, I can read about it all I want in textbooks but, the reality of what jail is can not be depicted on a television screen or on the pages of a book. As I walked through the jail I had the opportunity to observe some prisoners in their cells. This was very eye opening, it had never hit me that moment that, those cells were where those prisoners lived 24/7 until they had served their whole sentence which, for some, is as much as 364 days. Medical issues and court dates are the main reasons that the prisoners are allowed to leave their cells, which is different that what I thought. I had always assumed that prisoners were allowed to roam around during the day, but no, the are confined to a very small place daily. Another thing that interested me about this tour is how our guide, told us that most people find jail time to be harder than prison time, mainly because there are less program available to the prisoners in prison. In jail the sentences have to be less than 365 days and if someone makes bail they are out of there, so that makes it very hard to start programs to give the prisoners more things to do. I was at the jail for all of two hours touring the facility and that was enough time for me to know that, that is a place I never want to end up. Piglet456
Going into this "field trip" I was super excited to see everything how the media portrayed what jail would be like. The bared cells, riots, armed to the teeth security guards but I received none of that in fact what I really received was a lot greater than any new documentary or movie could have ever shown. I realized that putting someone in a dark hole for months at a time isn't the answer to creating a functioning citizen to help their community in fact you create an even more hostile more aggressive criminal. Our tour guy (whos name I can't remember) said it all "any job in the criminal justice field is 95% talking and socializing with people around you". So in reality that means treat everyone with respect you'll get farther in life through a conversation then through the barrel of a gun. This point goes all the way down the chain of command to the security guards that don't carry anything but a radio to the sheriff himself. Being in the cells just made me surprised on how there isn't more fights being in such a small block with 10 to 20 0ther guys or girls is outstanding. And to see that they don't have as many fights as everyone realizes really goes to show you how well the rules go in jail cause the prisoners only have so much they're not going to lose their privileges over something stupid...not saying that some don't but not as many as I thought starting out. But when the tour came to the end our guide asked whos interested in going into the corrections field probably 75% of the group raised their hands and it surprised me cause I wouldn't want no where near that job mainly because I wanna be out there catching the bad guys not watching them. And I'd have to move to Peoria county to work there so I think I'll pass. But my respect still goes out to those who work in that corrections. BikeMaker456
My thoughts on the jail visit made me feel for the people locked up. I seem to put myself and other people shoes so I can make the right choice in future terms. Its always to sides to a story and the decision they made put them into that place. It must be hard to do time in there with that weird smell. But for better terms about the jail they are helping out the law side and the public side. By keeping the people that shouldn’t be out in the world and also by helping out the law by sharing information throughout the system. They collect so much information like an interview. Also i didn’t know inmates didn’t have right to privacy and if the board wanted to they can put cameras into all the cells. That can be different they can prevent rapes and fights and murders that happen everyday in the type of society that live in. I think they should that on in more dangerous prisons or jails around the world. BikeLife456
The PCJ tour was what I expected, due to attending it last semester during my 110 class. I thought it was interesting how the Superintendent said that the main thing he harps on his officers is respect for the inmates. I think it's interesting the social stigma that gets placed on the inmates and as a result can show in police work. That was something that really stood out to me. Integrity is the big puppy on the block in the law enforcement and correctional world because this is not an occupation where lying is an option because these are real people and they all require respect regardless of their crimes. When we went through the two-way mirror, I had observed that the inmates seemed to find anything to keep them occupied either reading or watching tv since there isn't a whole lot you can do when you incarcerated. I don't generally like to use the word assume, but it appeared that some of the people being housed have been to PCJ many times. Relating back to the classroom, rehabilitation was emphasized a good amount of time from GED and other programs, certifications and even through religion. Jails are different from prisons because jails can house you up to 364 days opposed to a prison which can hold a person longer than 1 year as a result programs have to be pushed away due to it not being a good business practice for costs. Mental health was another interesting aspect of the facility. The guide said that almost everyone takes medicines of some kind as well as seek mental heath from the nurse's station. The facility doubles as a mental health hospital and a jail. The facility has declined on inmates having a head count of 300+ opposed to the 600's that the facility used to be at. I was surprised how much Summer Camp brings in and how the facility spent $700,000 on just transportation to get those convicted to the facility. The cost to house someone in this facility was about $63 with the population count of 300+ which I found shocking since there is so much going on that the number was a low as it is. All in all, this was very eye opening and I have considered this as a potential job opportunity once I finish my schooling to get my foot in the door. I look forward to going back on the tour during the fall if the opportunity is still available. There is always something new you learn or over looked.
I would first like to say that I thought the man giving the tour was very well educated and knowledgeable about not only the facility but all aspects of his career and people seeking that type of career. I was really glad to hear when he said he treated everyone the same and that yes bad people go to jail but sometimes good people who make bad decisions go to jail. I'm glad some people understand this because I was one of those people. I have personally spent time there several years ago due to a bad decision, so I already knew some of what to expect and what we were going to see as far as the facility itself. I know like he said they have a lot of return repeat offenders but at the same time I believe people can make mistakes and turn around and learn from them to do better. I feel I am an example of one. I did my short time and did not return. Due to the fact they had removed smoking there also, I was able to quit smoking while I was in there too. So I feel like sometimes a bad situation can result in positive outcome. I was also intrigued to hear about their punishment program. Its almost the same as dealing with children, you can't take away everything because they have nothing to earn back or as he said nothing to lose. I understand their reasoning on no longer allowing them in the yard in good weather but not sure if I'd agree on that. I would think that by itself would cause even greater mental problems, not being able to have any sunlight. I agree with him on shutting down summer camp if its costing all of us tax payers what he claims it is. I also think it great that they offer GED and food service so they have some sort of education and can get a job when they get out, because like he said its survival. If you cant get a job your going to go back to doing whatever you were doing before, most likely illegal and its just a vicious cycle, just to survive. I was disturbed to hear that the freedom of information act allows prisoners to get information on other inmates. I don't feel they should be able to get this info without at least a good excuse or reason why they need it. Overall it was very interesting and I learned quite a bit. Deacon012
The jail tour was informative on what went down. When I think of people in jail, I think that they are bad since they are behind bars. When he said that they are good people in there too because of a bad mistake they made, it gave me an understanding that they are not all bad. Seeing the prisoners in the cells makes me not want to make a stupid mistake because I could not handle being in such a tight place. I remember how I used to be sent into my room as a kid and I would through tantrums because of being in a certain space not being able to leave. Plus, the rotting smell of the women block made me want to throw up a little and I don’t know what I would do having to smell that all day. I was hoping that we would see the bad criminals because the ones we did see were trustees and the well behaved, it would have been nice to see the other side get both points of views. Overall, the sheriff made the tour interesting, providing information throughout the whole tour and all questions that were asked. bamboo456
The PCJ tour was very interesting. To know I got to take a tour around the jail was the coolest thing ever I am very thankful for that opportunity.To me that jail doesn't look that bad at all its very clean and high maintenance even with the slight smell.Also I have mad respect for the superintendent,it takes a strong individual to hold a job like that. they treat the inmates like human beings just because they mad a bad decision they don't label them as the crime they committed don't what it was.They make them earn everything which i think it awesome, it teaches them discipline and lets them know everything is nit handle to them just like in the real world. You only can be in jail up to a year if your not awaiting on trial.Some inmates tried they hardest to stay in the county because its closer to home they have more access to people.The media give the good thing about the jail or how it super expensive. I really looking forward to working there.SHAYLAVON789
This tour was very interesting and informative. I never knew how much work it takes to run a jail. The superintendent was very knowledgeable about the jail and law enforcement in general. The Q and A part at the end was really nice because there was no question he couldn't answer. I always thought the jails would look like they do on TV, but this one is different. It was much nicer and had a GED program. I didn't know that you got as many phone calls as you want because it always shows on TV that you only get one. I loved how they took a lot of pride in their medical services there. It showed that they treat the inmates like humans even though they committed a crime.
The medical services they have are very important and are very well done with is a doctor 24/7. The has the GED program which is a good way for inmates to grow while they are in jail. And it will benefit them after they get out. Jfl789
The media makes the jail seem completely different that t really is. They make is seem like their is always fights and bad things going on when in reality they don't happen very often. I agree with you on it being a positive thing of all of the programs the inmates are offered. Their main goal is to keep the inmates from coming back and these programs will help them reach that goal. dragons789
I agree that I never really knew how the jail system or buildings worked. You really just go by what you see in movies or what you hear about it. You never really know though until you are there and it is nice to learn things like this to be more aware of what goes on in the world.Bengals012
The corrections system is very interesting in the sense of this is the place were all kinds of people go and it doesn’t matter what the crime really. Jail is a simple process if you stop and think about it. There are only a few different options when you are going to jail. Booking to bail or you get to stay there until the court date. There is more to it but that is the basic premise of it. The fact that we only about 347 people in jail right now is a fantastic think. Especially considering the fact that just three years ago that there were over 600 people. The other interesting fact about the tour was to hear about the busiest weekend of the year. Which was memorial weekend or summer camp. Which they get a lot of drug offenses from. Jfl789
I agree with you it's so interesting to know so many people from different backgrounds are there for not all the same reason but serving the same purpose. Some people that are in there are simply just got caught on one of their bad days, Then you have the people who actually live the life of crime. That's so important for people to remember that not everyone who is in jail is a bad person. -dicaprio789
The tour was very informative and interesting. The media makes it seem like it is a crazy place where people are always getting in fights and bad things are always happening. In reality fights don't happen very often and most of the time it is a calm place. One point I liked that was made is the main rule they have in the jail is respect. He said that the officer treat the inmates with respect and expect the same in return and that if you treat them with respect they will be more likely to help you out in the future while investigating a crime. I also thought it was good that they had GED programs for the inmates since a majority of them probably never finished high school. Also I liked that they had the food classes for them to prepare them for when they get out to find a job so they don't end up back in jail. Another thing that shocked me was the the drop in inmates. He said 3 years ago they had over 600 inmates and they were having to sleep on the floor and they barely had enough room for them all and now they are down to about 300. Thats a good sign because it shows that the jail and prison populations are dropping and it will help with the costs of running the prison. dragons789
I really enjoyed the tour. The media really does blow the whole idea out of proportion though. Brian said that there are rarely any fights there and when there are it is over something like a card game. I think its good for the inmates to get a program like a GED. Godzilla789
I recall taking a tour of the jail a long time ago. I would say that was during 7th grade and my fingerprints trumped everything because I apparently can’t recall anything else about the inmates themselves. As I type this I do remember seeing prisoners’ contraband in a case. That consisted of random drug paraphernalia and a few shank-like objects. This trip was exceptionally different. Now having learned about the system itself it was easier to identify certain aspects of what was going on. The holding cells past the garage area held an individual who pressed his face against the glass window while he uttered something unintelligible with his middle finger raised in the air. Below him was another person sleeping on a narrow bench. I thought to myself, this might get interesting but then he just sat back and chilled out. It was fascinating to learn how the different processes worked, from booking to detaining and even for awaiting trial. Once we entered the holding area we got to see the inmates and how they relate inside of their areas. Between pacing back and forth, reading, and just having casual conversation, it was still a bit surreal to see. I personally could never imagine being locked up for long periods of time, especially if I were in a case where I was innocent. The monitoring area was probably my favorite spot of the tour. I like the overseeing qualities that it holds, and not to be to disconcerting but it is almost like observing a psychological study. As a side note it was strange to see two individuals who were working for the department. I didn’t want to stop them from doing what they were doing but it was nice to see familiar faces working on the force. Overall, the tour was great and I appreciate the time that we got to have inside. - StrongArm789
I felt very trapped inside, and I knew I wouldn't do well if I were in that situation. Since I am claustrophobic, I would probably act out and lose my privileges. This would lead to an even less desirable visit. I know that I will not get myself in a situation like that. I find incarceration rates to be completely out of proportion. I saw nearly an even number of black to white inmates, and I know the ratio in Peoria is closer to 80/20. Our society cannot account for this difference, and we need to do more to balance this. If it begins in the neighborhood, we need to make the changes while we still can influence our children to go in a different direction. I've been in jail before, but I come from a different background. I had all the bail money I needed, as well as the best attorneys. Therefore, I have a clean record and a better chance at changing my future. Without this money and support, my result would have been completely different. I think the visit 'scared me straight.' I appreciate the hands-on experience, and I was reminded of how little control we have of the outcome. OICU8 012
The jail tour was extremely informative for me, and very helpful seeing as how I have hopes of starting off my career there. I was very shocked to learn that the officers do not carry guns inside of the jail. It makes sense now, but it was still surprising. And the fact that only a handful of officers carry tasers was surprising as well. It's a bit frightening, but again, it does make sense. It shows respect for the inmates, and also doesn't give the officers the opportunity to harm if the situation occurred. The first person I saw in the jail happened to be when we were passing through booking. He was in the holding cell and was walking in circles, as I passed him he just looked at me and smiled. The second set of people I saw was right after this, these inmate's reactions reminded me of those of the juveniles I saw last semester. They were screaming and hollering at the girls, trying to get our attention. This actually answered a question that I had, which was whether the inmates at the jail would act more mature, since in age they were mature than the boys at the juvenile detention center. Seeing the inmates in their pods was strange. We watched them through a 2 way glass, making the inmates seem almost like lab rats. They had no clue that we were there, but yet we were standing up there studying them. The inmates were actually allowed a lot more than what I thought they were. They had televisions and vcd's and dvd players. The trustees had a lot more freedom, as much as you can when you're incarcerated I suppose. At one point we were headed upstairs to view the women from the security room, and the trustees came around the corner. They didn't have an officer in front of them, I assume the officer was behind them, but it definitely showed they have more allowances than the others. We didn't get to view the higher level inmates housed there, because we didn't want to get them riled up for the night shift officers. I thought the tour was very good and reinforced my desire to start off there. -Leilani789
This was my first time being in a jail, and honestly I didn’t know what to expect. Television and movies portray it as a place of violence and hostility, but I didn’t see that. One of the quotes from our tour guide that stuck out to me was about how many of the people in jail are good people who made bad decisions. I thought about how easy it would be to make one mistake and end up in the same place that the inmates are in. The cells were small and the one I went inside of smelled, and the restrictions on what you can and can’t do would drive me insane. I found walking above the blocks to be very interesting because it gave me an idea of how the inmates behave when they don’t know they’re being watched by someone other than the guards. The only one who actually did see us was at the beginning, and he just kept looking at us through the windows and hollering; I wonder if more of them would have acted like this if they could see us. Overall, this tour was very informative, and I think that if more young people went on these tours it would really show where crime really gets you, instead of how glamourous television and movies can portray it. Blues456
I really appreciate your post! This was a very good representation of what jail really is. I totally agree! I liked the way the jail was set up so we could see down in each cellblock without the inmates knowing we were there. I also agree with the tour guides comment. I am living proof of a "good" person who made a very dumb decision. I was placed on probation and that has been the best thing to ever happen to me. If i could have visited this jail when I was young and stupid, I believe it would have influenced me to change my life a lot earlier on. I'm a strong believer in the fact, most people don’t think they will end up in a jail or "get caught" when they are doing what they know is wrong. This can and does happen to people everyday. If we could all see it from the inside like we did on this tour, I think more people would think before they break the law. Twal456
I thought that this was a very good experience and I feel like it educates people in a way that you wouldn't really think. It was weird seeing a person in the holding room when we first started our tour. When we started to actually tour the pods it was very interesting You could see what they were doing and you could tell that you never want to go to jail because you will be in that particular pod for as long as you are there and that would be awful to never see green grass for a year. When we went down and actually got in a pod it made you hate it even more it was an awful smell and I couldn't imagine just sitting in there and doing that for almost a year yes you can watch TV and play cards but everything you do is in that pod, you sleep there eat there and shower there it just is so hard for me to imagine being confined in that one place for a lengthy period of time. It was nice to go into the gym and have a discussion about what we saw after the tour and be able to ask any additional questions that we had. i thought that it was a great experience. Bengals012
I absolutely agree the experience does educate you in a different way. We grow up portraying jail as something else and then when you get to see first hand how everything works it changes your perspective. That is a place I would never want to be. You are confined to one place or area I should say for how ever long your there. The smell was unbearable I cant believe they have to smell that everyday. I guess at the end of the day if you make a bad decision then jail is somewhere you could end up.Blue012
I always love these tours, one because I am a criminal justice major and its the line of work I want to go into. it's definitely something very different that you don't get to see everyday. It's somewhere I know I would never survive, it's a whole other world. It's interesting to see the different types of people who come in and out of jails, coming from the repeat offender, or the person that just got caught on their bad days. Jails to me are like a big story, there are so many different types of people from all different backgrounds who come in and out of their every single day. And just like he had said not everyone who comes in there are bad people, which I think is very important for people to remember. I think it's really awesome that you have certain jailers who can become trusties, it really gives you another way of looking at jails. Knowing that they aren't just in there to rot they can actually work on themselves while they are locked up. It's cool to see them get their privileges buying their things and even getting DVD players is something i didn't even know that they allowed in jails. It's also hard for me to imagine being locked in one space for a really long time, not being able to see the grass or the seasons change I can only imagine how hard it is. All and All it's always a great experience deff something you don't get to do everyday and something you really cannot forget. -dicaprio789
Coming from the sociological side of it, it's very interesting to see how different the male and the female population act. You always see the female population working together more as a "family" than you do the male population. You go where the men are living and I feel like the closest contact that you get is them playing cards together. But when you go and check out the female population you see them braiding each others hair, and getting up close and personal. It's very interesting to me to see the ways they act toward one another especially in an setting like so. We all form in different ways how we know how to survive, especially in a jail setting it's all about finding a way to do your time and getting back out there in the real world.Sociology and criminal justice go hand and hand with each other and viewing the jail tour from both sides really opens up one's eyes. It's nothing like you see on tv, the media and tv shows portray jails to be wild and nasty but in reality (well some of them aren't as clean as peoria county) but in general it seemed like a really "nice" place unlike a lot of other facilities. -dicaprio012
It wasn't a bad experience for me. I really enjoyed the tour. I had no idea that it was going to be so much different from what you see on the television. Growing up jail was always portrayed as such a dangerous place on television vs. real life. I had no idea that the jail was basically 95 percent male and the other female. It seemed to have a lot of male staff vs. female staff. I did not know that all you do each day is stay in your own pod all day 24/7. I found that interesting. It was nice to watch how everyone interacted with each other because those are the only people they get to see everyday besides family. I liked the system that they have set up for inmates so that if they have a complaint they are able to send an email and someone will get back to them. Overall it seemed like a "nice" place and the staff really care about how they treat there inmates and they value respect. which I found was very nice because some people don't care and from what I saw they absolutely do.Blue012
Going to the jail was an experience. I had never been inside a jail before but I have seen footage from inside them. It was quite the experience and I learned a lot from the visit. I always thought that they'd be bringing in drunks on a daily basis despite the time of year. But it was really cool to find out the number of incarcerations go down in the fall and winter months. It was really cool to go up into the control rooms n watch the monitors and inmates through the glass. It showed just how boring that part of the job must be. Being inside the female pod was an experience too. It made me feel confined in such a small space it made me not want to be in there. To then find out that the inmates would never see grass during their time there really made me not to ever be there. However, I wouldn't mind being a cop there at the jail. As a start to my career it would give me a way to deal with the suspects before arresting them for what ever their crime was first hand by their behavior upon arrival to the jail. Learning about the relationship the staff and inmates have really shows how much the staff cares for the inmates and how the inmates show respect back in return. Introducing video visits to the jail I think was a nice idea as it does knock down waiting times for visitors which moves things along quicker. All in all it was a great experience and was glad i went. DeadMan456
This was my first experience in a facility like this. I personally enjoyed the tour very much. What I saw in there is different from what I would usually see on TV. From what you would experience from television I expected it to be more violent than what it actually was. I was surprised when he said that the only fights they ever really get are over card games and that doesn't happen often. I enjoyed being able to see the inmates doing their own thing. It kind of reminded me of a zoo. We stood behind impenetrable glass while they were trapped and just doing their own thing. It seemed like a clean facility besides the putrid smell in some parts. I thought the jail was a very professional environment that they take very seriously. The staff seemed very professional and did their job even though we were intruding. Godzilla789
This was my first time in a facility like this. From a sociological point of view I enjoyed the tour very much. I thought it was very interesting when Brian said that some people thought the jail would be worse than prison. He explained that in prison you have more programs that you are able to join which is a very good idea and which is very good for the inmate. The jail I felt like was a very good environment for the inmates. They were treated fairly and got all the essentials that they need. If the inmates are good then they can get special privileges like staying up late or more time with the TV or some jails will give them an extra sandwich. They really treat the women and the men pretty different. The men are allowed to have a cellmate while the women are only allowed one to a cell. I feel like the jail could be a positive influence on some of these peoples lives even though they are criminals they are here to get help and be rehabilitated. Godzilla012
I agree with what you had to say. I also agreed with our tour guide when he talked about prison being a better stay then at a jail. For these inmates, any constructive activities are looked upon highly. Things such as laundry and cooking in the kitchen. When you’re locked in a cell/cell block, you must long for any type of physical activity! There were inmates literally walking back and forth, over and over again just to have something to do and get some exercise. I think prison is more desirable location for most as well. I also believe both locations force a positive influence on change in the lives of these criminals, so that they do not return. Twal012
I really enjoyed touring the jail. The tour guide Brian was very informative and a very respectable roll model. His job is not easy, and I thought his calm and collected demeanor was impressive. Seeing the county jail inside and out was a great learning experience. Like I've heard it said before, the books have nothing on real life experience. I thought the jail had interesting sociological aspects intertwined in the inmate’s daily lives. They exercised, ate, played cards, and watched T.V. together. The inmates used social interaction to make the time go by. It was like a small-secluded community in each pod. I like the fact human beings can adapt to they're surroundings and make do. In my opinion the worst position one may be placed in the jail would be a secure housing unit secluded from the population. When you’re alone in a small room with only your thoughts, you will literally go crazy. The guide, Brian, explained how people who get secluded for bad behavior must have mental health checks everyday because suicide completion rates increase when taken out of the general population. I can see this being an issue. I thought it was also interesting how the intake process is questionable in a sense that the arrested people might be alcoholics or heroin addicts. The medical team at the jail must be conscious of this. You cant die from heroin withdraws, however, you can die from alcohol withdraws. Twal012
When it comes to criminal justice, the jail aspect of corrections is completely necessary. While touring the jail I noticed a lot of different positive influences. Our tour guide explained the privileges inmates might receive for good behavior. This influences they're behavior in an everyday setting because they don't want to loose valuable privileges such as T.V., commissary, bedding, and visit time with outsides over a video kiosk. It looked like little kids being punished for breaking the rules. Like mother said, no T.V. for you because you have been bad. I see this as a humiliating tactic. These people must already be embarrassed for getting locked up in the first place. The rules and regulations implemented on the general population of the jail is very necessary to command a higher level of cooperation. By following the rules set in front of them in jail, they are at a better chance to follow the laws when they get out. The corrections facility was cold, and each pod was under physical and video surveillance. One could not do much without it being seen. I think this jail had many positive influences on the inmates to make sure they change they're lives and don't wind up in the same situation again. Twal456
First off, It was a great experience. I have never been in a facility like that before. You see stuff on TV but you never truly realize what its like until you have been inside one yourself. After seeing the inmates locked up, I know I would never want to be in their situation. Walking above the blocks and watching them below was weird to me almost like watching some caged animals in a testing facility. Which isn't the case, these are human beings. I felt empathy for them but at the same time, if you do the crime you should pay the time. The man heading the tour seemed liked the right man for the job, very cool calm and collected as someone in his position of basically running the jail should be. A strong leader is the vibe I got off him. Overall I really liked the tour it brought a lot of the questions I had up and out which was pretty cool. MuayThaiGuy012
ReplyDeleteI honestly thought the same thing when the tour started. It was something that I couldn't personal picture in my head. When seeing the prisoners from the one way mirror was pretty cool also. You got to see what it was like what the prisoners do on their time in there. BlackHawks012
DeleteI agree, my expectations of how big the pods were and how big the cells were, were way off. I originally thought that the cells would be a couple feet wider, and that the pods would have more wiggle room. But after seeing how quickly someone could pace around the pod it surprised me.–Pasta012
DeleteI also agree with you its not bad as people make it seem.they are not caged animals they are normal human beings who made a little mistake who do not need to be in there.i would not send my worst enemy there.shaylavon789
DeleteI had an amazing experience from the jail tour. I felt bad for the people that did make a stupid mistake that made them go to jail. On TV you see people in jails acting crazy, but that was not the case there. Now, I want to go to a prison to see the differences between jail and prison.
Deletebamboo456
I went on a tour of the county jail when I was in fifth grade. All I remember is getting my finger prints taken and having an ID card made. I was excited to see the jail as an adult. In my mind the jail was going to look like what I've seen on tv. The pods that the inmates share are different then what I expected. I was picturing jail cells with bars on them. I think the pods are much nicer. I liked the man giving the tour. I apologize but I can't remember his name. He was very informative and easy to talk to. The question and answer session at the end of the tour was nice. He went over many things we are covering in class. I never would have thought about what to do with individuals from different gangs or from the same gangs. It makes sense to me to split up gang members so they are less likely to form a group. There is strength in numbers and I can imagine how that might become a problem for correction officers and other inmates. I also thought it was interesting that they have had to come up with new rules regarding social media. There are so many ways to communicate now then there was even ten years ago. I really liked how our guide kept emphasizing the importance of humanity. I don't think I'm a cruel person but my opinion of people in jail was not good. I feel like I've grown a little by this experience. My eyes were opened more when our guide, who is surrounded daily by inmates, said there are bad people in jail but there are also good people who have just made a bad decision. I will try not to be so quick to judge in the future. I didn't enjoy learning that about myself but knowledge is power and I can grow. Overall I think this was a great experience. I learned a lot and I am excited to check out the juvenile detention center. Hadrosaur012
ReplyDeleteI thought it was a great experience also because you got to see what it is like further on behind those doors and not to have to watch a TV show. Maybe if one of the prisoners came in and talked to us and shared on how they feel about jail would've been an eye opener also. DaBulls456
DeleteIt was cool to go in and actually see what happens in the jails because the television shows overdramatize the situation a bit where the inmates will yell at you and seem crazy at times. Now maybe they were not acting like that because they did not know we were there but they seemed pretty mild mannered. Overall it was a very informative trip, it taught a lot about that jail, and the other types of jails around the country. Birdman789
DeleteThis facility was very well maintained and the respect was thrown out quite often through the tour. You do see how their is more of a standard these inmates are held at especially the trustee's. The tv either over dramatizes or fails to deliver what goes on and lacks the back story of the facility. The PCJ is accredited which also helps what we saw as "nicer" than what we see on tv.
DeletePalmdaddy789
From a Criminal Justice standpoint I thought it was a great way of looking on how they can separate everyone from certain crimes they have committed because they actually want to keep the violence down in jail. When someone said they have it worse in jail because I mean it's worse than prison because they don't get the same amount of privileges because jail is to make these criminals realize that it is not a joke. When I was given the tour I was getting a weird as if I was placing my self in the prisoners shoes. It was the greatest vibe because I mean you don't get to see the outside, limited visiting, just sit in a cell all day, and be around the same people 24/7. To me I would go insane because jail is no freedom. I found it interesting on how the prisoners keep themselves entertained because rather they are in their for only a couple months or 6 months it will not obviously be a fun ride. When I arrived at the jail I never thought it would be like as I seen on TV. I thought it would be people in cell blocks trying to get at us. When someone asked about if they split up gangs when they arrive to jail and when the sheriff said they try but they can only do so much. If I was a officer at the jail I would be scared to go in that cell block because you never know what could happen when you walk in their. But overall I thought the tour was excellent and it was a great experience. DaBulls456
ReplyDeleteI would have to agree with the thinking that the inmates were going to try to get at us. I thought it was just going to be us walking through a bunch of cells like the old days and us being physically next to them and hearing what they are saying. But once I saw how segregated they really are from the world I really started thinking how bad it would be in there. I to agree that it was an excellent tour and great experience that I think everybody needed. ICCRunner789
DeleteI agree, It is no joke at all. The whole point of Jail in my opinion is one keep dangerous criminals off the streets, but as we found out not all the people in their are really criminals. They may have made one stupid mistake that landed them in there and hopefully that's all it takes is one visit to not do it again. It was nice that the tour guide emphasized the difference. MuayThaiGuy012
DeleteFrom a Social standpoint I think jail environment was just any other jail because they will get different people of color, race and religion. The prisoners may not like certain people in the jail but they are going have to deal with it for quite a while. When I seen the male and the female side of the jail I saw that some cell pods had only white people, only black people, or maybe a mixer of both. It looked like everyone got a long in jail because they actually became adults and put there differences aside. Does it have to come to the point in today's society that people have to work their way up to put their differences aside and just get a long but there are some that don't at all because of their own beliefs. The jail environment was the weirdest vibe I could ever feel because it was not a pleasant place if I was a criminal in that situation. Even though jail is only going to be a short time to be in there. I believe that jail is a experience that some people can get a good picture of reality because over the course of time everything changes and won't be the same. Rather they don't like certain people in jail it will be something that they will have to deal with on a daily bases because no prisoner get's there way in jail at all. When I went on the tour I thought the sheriff made some good points on the environment of the jail and how how he has seen it from his own point of view. I thought the tour was an experience that I never imagined. BlackHawks012
ReplyDeleteBlackHawks012, I can certainly see what you mean when it comes to jail, perhaps, encouraging integration between widely differing religions, races, and ethnicities. While this is not the manifest purpose of jail, it is certainly a helpful latent effect. As for the strange atmosphere in the jail, I felt that as well. It was certainly an interesting place to visit but not someplace I would like to live in for any period of time. – Jung012
DeleteGoing into the jail I thought it would have been much more of an aggressive atmosphere due to what the social media has played it out to be. My first thought going in was that I might see a fight, but I didn't. The facility was really well taken care of and not at all as dirty as what I thought it was going to be. I know there wasn't going to be blood or anything on the ground but it was still a very chill atmosphere from what I saw. Not really much was going on. I remember looking in and seeing the guys playing chess. I thought that was just a joke but they were really playing chess. It wasn't just one group of guys either, it was several. Once I heard that they stay inside that cell for their whole sentence(except for medical reasons and if the sheriff says otherwise) really surprised me. So if you have a six month sentence, you see the same exact setting for the six months. That would drive me absolutely insane just after the first month. I know the main objective is to deter and that is a good way to do it. I would hate to be the women with the smaller cell block. The men have a little bit more room to walk around and stuff to look at. The women had much smaller cells. I know its because they don't have nearly the size population so it makes sense. My question is now, are women more well behaved than men? I mean since there are fewer women in jail/ prison. ICCRunner789
ReplyDeleteI had thought the same thing about the aggressive atmosphere! But when we talked to the chief about why they are so calm and well behaved, he made sense out of it. The better they behave the more privileges and the sooner they get out. I would think that the women and men behave pretty similar. I am sure there would be fights in both still. This was such an interesting tour and I am so glad that we got to partake in this tour! Storm012
DeleteI agree. I think Hollywood likes to dramatize most of the things that they depict. I knew it wouldn't be exactly the same, but honestly I impressed at the respective calm atmosphere in there. I think that there were a few pods that were bigger in the womens side, but they were all in the small ones. This was curious to me. I wondered if they had bigger pods why they didn't put them in there instead. -Jakku012
DeleteThe jail tour was, by far, one of the most interesting activities we did as a class. It brought the issues of sociology into real life and reinforced them as well as give an interesting perspective on the criminal justice system. I walked into the jail not knowing what to expect. The majority of my image of jails had been influenced by a mixture of Russian gulags, Nazi concentration camps, Stalag 17, The Green Mile, and The Shawshank Redemption. I was presently surprised by the jail we toured. While certainly a place of correction and designed without comfort in mind, it was far from the military-esque prison I had in mind. I was most impressed by our guide’s genuine concern for the inmates and the pains he took to give them as much comfort and privacy as possible under the circumstances.
ReplyDeleteLooking at the jail from a sociological perspective, it would appear that it is designed to minimize conflict. Men and women are kept out of eyeshot and earshot of each other, reducing any sexual conflict that may occur otherwise. In addition, the jail authorities are careful to mix the population in such a manner as to avoid fights.
While touring the men and women’s blocks I noticed an interesting phenomenon. In the women’s block, different races and ethnicities appeared to congregate together heterogeneously, without concern for these barriers. In the men’s block, causation and black males seems to congregate only with those of like race, more homogenous groups. It would be interesting to study the jail to see if this is an isolated observation or a widespread occurrence.
While jail is a necessary institution, I wonder how much it really helps to reeducate the inmates. Deviant behavior is rooted in breaking society’s rules. While jail may teach the inmates respect, it appears to do little to redirect or eliminate deviant thought processes and convictions. Perhaps, rather than isolating these individuals, we should devise new ways of reeducating and changing their underlying deviant thought processes. – Jung012
Jung012, That's what I was talking about. the reason people continue, is because they don't know any different. They need to be taught! And I don't think its ever to late! If we focus on rehabilitation i.e. school, learning a trade, we would see less recitvism. So in saying this I agree with you! Let's focus on helping instead of just standing by!MITHGTS012
DeleteReally enjoyed this breakdown of the tour. Touched on things that I had noticed as well. I got the feel of a high school while walking through the hallways. Probably the painted concrete walls and floors. I also took notice of genuineness of him for the overall health of the inmates. He doesn't want to see them back. He wants to see them become productive members of society. We could probably use more people like him throughout all institutions like this. Purple012
DeleteThe guide's behavior towards the inmates stood out to me as well. I liked that he seemed to genuinely care about the people he is responsible for taking care of. You bring up an interesting thought about the women interacting with each other no matter what race over the men who seem to stay within their own race. I think the results of a widespread study would be interesting. I agree that more education for the inmates would be helpful so they wouldn't continue their life of crime when they get out of jail. The guide touched on this a little. The jail has the GED program and the food/sanitary program to help inmates but like he said their just isn't enough money for many programs and most of the inmates don't stay long enough for it to be beneficial. Hadrosaur012
DeleteI too was very impressed with our tour guide. I liked he used his sociological imagination and put himself in the inmates shoes when deciding certain issues regarding comfort and privacy. I also liked he noted that not all the people in jail are bad people, and sometimes good people just make bad decisions. Crown012
DeleteI agree about Mr. Asbell's approach being very humanitarian. He doesn't dole out the punishement, he is only the gatekeeper. I would like to think that all others in his position had the same attitude, but I know better. When we were watching "Do No Harm", we saw clinical proof of how human behavior changes when roles are changed. Even when it was a mock scenario, psychological damage did occur. It would be just as easy for a person with his position to forget his real role in this.
DeleteOICU8 012
I really enjoyed the visit to the jail. I am glad it was just a visit! I had been to Statesville, with my old criminal justice classes. I noticed that even though everyone is put together, you have your groups. I did like the fact that the person who gave us the tour was all about helping, and wanting to make sure respect is given and received. I just wish there was more focus on rehabilitation. I know that it costs money, but as opposed to housing these guys it would seem to make more sense to spend the money on rehabilitation. The reason for return rate is high is because they are under educated there for cant make money.. so in saying that I feel we should spend more money on rehabilitation than housing them! MITHGTS012
ReplyDeleteThey have been spending a lot on the medical rehabilitation side, but yes they should add more programs. Programs that pin point becoming better as an individual. The medical thing is pin pricked on finding mental illnesses not re making them for the real world. These days its all about saving money I feel and not taking a carful look on reducing recidivism.
DeleteMusic 456
Cool, this tour was excellent but I would love to have the opportunity to visit Statesville and compare the differences in behavior between the two. I also agree with your point more money should be invested into the rehabilitation side more than anything. Most of these people need help and really don't know right from wrong. If they spent more time into trying to help these individuals, the inmates may have a more positive outlook when coming out of the jails.
Deletemommy012
I agree with you. I was glad that the tour guide was about respect,responsibility, and integrity. I feel like he really loves his job and the different people he meets. I believe he takes pride in getting to know his inmates and his workers. Its kind of hard to believe that there are still people like that because of the media and the way the are portraying police now.Neverson012
DeleteIt was not my first time in the jail; I went there last year and both times were fun and informative. Seeing the pods and going in there really lets you get the feel of what the inmate sees and feels like in there. I think I would go insane being in a small pod like the one we went into because there is nothing to do and it is so small. The other thing that would get to me would be the recreational yard which was just a tall room with a chain link fence at the top so you can see a little bit of the sky. After seeing the yard, it was pretty amazing to picture how the two inmates escaped from there. It had very high walls and to think that all the inmates worked together to make a human ladder that high would have been extremely interesting to witness. The superintendent of the jail was very informative, not only did he tell us some detailed history about the jail and knew a lot about the national trends that were going around the country such as the crime rate going down over the past couple years. Birdman789
ReplyDeleteIm replying just because of the first sentence :) Not mine either. I was received as a 'client' all those years ago. *cough, cough* The stories were great. I particularly like the one about how people would throw things over the fence of the ball diamond. Then those privileges were stripped. Fight with a pillow case, they are gone. After every incident the population acted out there was a big kibosh to follow. Doberman789
DeleteThis was my first time inside any kind of facility like this (jail, prison, correctional facility) and I did not know what to expect when I decided that I wanted to attend the tour. When we first entered the jail, and were standing around in the area where the blocks were, I started to get a little nervous. I enjoyed the stories and information the chief shared with us. Once we entered above the pods, I was shocked. I thought it would be completely different. For the most part, the people seemed to be enjoying themselves playing card, watching television, and reading books. I was not expecting it to be so laid back. I thought that I would see arguments or them locked up in their little cells unhappy or something, like you see in movies. It just shows how different things are in the media and on the big screen in comparison to how they are in the real world. My favorite part of the tour was the question and answer session at the end. I left with a different perspective on jails. I left more open minded and with new knowledge of what happens in the criminal system. Overall, I very much enjoyed the tour and would love to do it again. Storm012
ReplyDeleteThis was my first time touring a jail also, I expected to see all the chaos that I'd seen on TV but I was really surprised to see how mellow everything was. I liked the pods because you actually get a view of what the inside of a cell looks like. The jail visit was very eye opening I'm glad I got the chance to tour it. Believe012
DeleteVisiting the jail was a very good and an eye opening deterrence of crime. I knew prison was confining and you dont have many rights, if any, but being inside was a shocker. The colors were dull, the rooms were cramped, metal beds, bad toilets and horrible smells. The inmates are very restricted in expressing themselves in their rooms with personal belongings. When observing some of them I saw the only things they could do were read, pace, and play chess. There was also a lack of clocks or daylight. The inmates completely loose the sense of time and day. Their outside hangout is a small room with a concrete floor and nothing in it with fence at the top. Jail is just not somewhere I would want to be after being in one. Like the guy said they are a jail not a prison, so they dont really have any programs for the inmates, so its even more restraining. The only connection they have with the outside world is one little tv. I also dont agree with the use of video visits. I understand its more convenient but denying the face to face meet takes a toll on these guys. Yes, its jail but still, they need to see their family. I mean maybe they still do face to face visits? But I still dont agree. I left thinking first of all , how I never ever want to do crime, but as well as a new perspective and understanding the life of a criminal a bit more.
ReplyDeleteMusic 456
This jail tour was excellent, and something that I really enjoyed. I was a very interesting experience that I was happy to be a part of. The man speaking did a fantastic job in explaining all of the things that take place in the jail and how the jail functions. Although I'm a dental hygienist major, this information had my full attention. I've never been inside of a jail before yesterday, the only visual that I've had where from television, and it was no where near the same as those jails. I thought their was going to be a lot of tension and commotion going on inside of the pods, but none of that was going on. From a sociological point of view I did have a little empathy for the inmates, they look bored out of their minds, and all their freedom is basically monitored, but I understand this is their punishment. I wouldn't ever want to be in this position, I honestly don't think I would be able to even last taking a shower once a week, being away from my family and having to be around other people that I don't know 24/7. Overall I enjoyed this tour, observing and learning. I would love to be able to visit a prison next, to see the difference in behaviors over the amount of time. Very interesting!
ReplyDeletemommy012
I agree that it was interesting and very exciting. It was also my first time inside of a jail and I, too was mislead because of the way the media portrays the inside of jails. For example, I went into the tour almost expecting some sort of chaos or altercation to take place, but that was far from occurring. I felt ignorant for having those thoughts once the tour was over. Just because people are in jail, it does not necessarily mean that they are angry people or have nothing better to do than fight. These people are everyday people, for the most part, and it was nice to be reminded of that at this tour since we could see them doing similar activities that we do (playing cards, reading, doing each others' hair, etc.) Cards789
DeleteOverall, the jail tour was very eye-opening. Although I thought I had it pretty well figured out what the insides of jails look like considering all of my education and viewing various television programs, I was way wrong! I was shocked to discover that jail was nothing like what I had envisioned. For one, I expected there to be a lot of chaos or fights between people in their pods because television shows often display that type of behavior going on inside jails, but that was something that we did not see any of. In fact, most of the pods that we were able to view looked to be getting along very well and communicating with one another in a friendly way. There were people playing cards, girls doing their hair, some people reading, some people sleeping, but not one single person that we saw was causing chaos or starting problems within the jail. As I stated in my reply to someone who posted, I felt ignorant when I left the jail for thinking that without a doubt a fight would occur. I was severely mistaken. Nothing even close to that happened that we were able to see. I was also shocked at how small the pods were. Although I know the purpose of jail and knew that they were fairly small, I did not know just how confined people in jail are. After this tour, one thing I do know for sure is that I am glad to be studying the jail from the outside in, as opposed to learning about it as an offender, from the inside out. Cards789
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree the media and t.v. gives us a false outlook on what jail is really like. To see how small the pods are and thinking out staying in there 24/7 for months to even years. Most people would go absolutely crazy being so confined. I also am very grateful for the experience and am happy to be seeing jail from a studying aspect. The thing i'm thinking of now is how this jail differs from others. The bigger and the badder jails would be the ones to shock us even more. It would be very interesting to get the chance to tour another jail or even a prison. Had a great time though and learned a lot. VT012
DeleteI agree even with the privileges the inmates do get, I would not want to experience it from the inside out. I also was mistaken about how the tour would end up being.
DeleteExtreme456
This was an interesting tour. I wasn't sure how i would feel about it. I thought I was prepared for it, but found myself a little nervous. It is intimidating to know you are locked in somewhere and your only way out is for someone to let you out. I can't personally imagine what it must feel like for someone getting booked into jail. They may feel that way but to an even greater extent. They are losing their freedom completely, whereas I was still free and there out of my own choice. The setup isn't what I initially thought it would be. I suppose I had some pretty stereotypical ideas. I really liked the way they are able to treat people there. I say "able" because there are certain things they do, or allow even, that may not always be possible even if they want them to be. For instance, allowing the women to be looked after by female officers only. That's not something that may always be possible. It probably depends on how many women are being held and how many female officers are working. I like that they do what they can though. He really pushed integrity and respect. For everybody, no matter his personal views. That is not an easy task. He suggested we tour the prison in a neighboring town if given the opportunity. I hope one day it will present itself. Purple012
ReplyDeleteBe honest. You hummed Folsom Prison Blues to yourself once in there. No, ok. Just me. Things I take away from the tour. G.E.D.'s are available while incarcerated. This was encouraging to learn. Although inmates are there for 364 days and a wake up there is a restorative nature to the prison. Through education you can give the inmates necessary tools to 'survive' once they get out. Less chance of recidivism by providing skills. The food service training was also interesting to learn of. I had an opportunity to speak with the Sheriff of the facility we toured. He also had stated the importance of working in corrections before becoming a L.E.O. It creates less of a culture shock when you hit the streets. I hadn't completely bought into the idea of corrections before law enforcement until the jail tour. I do believe its a logical sequence now. I don't believe at this time I want to work in a prison for the remainder of my employable years. This could change if/when it is my means of employment. I do believe its a discipline of the criminal justice system that needs to be experienced first hand. The thing that was most surprising to me is the annual rate of suicides in the prison. Not really something you hear about on the news. Why? Because that doesn't bring in the numbers like chaos. Armed with nothing but a radio! I found this to be a little disturbing. BUT, like I've said in the past....you're only as safe and sound as the guy standing next to you. They are your support system. So its safety in numbers for correction officers. I suppose you have to defend yourself or remove yourself from a situation if it arises. If you can. You are trained to defend yourself in the interim(until the rest of your team gets there). I wonder if a martial art or defense class would be marketable as a C.O. If so, which. The Superintendent was well spoken and versed in criminal justice.. I enjoyed that attribute of the tour. You can tell when someone likes their job,cares for the staff, and 'clients'. Final thought: Nothing like on the movies. No grass and very little natural light. Could this lead to mental health issues? It surprised me that they put inmates with mental health disorders in general population. Higher risk of victimization could occur. I also wonder how many of the offenders locked up could've benefited from a intermediate sanctions such as drug court. 'When I was just a baby, my Mama told me: Son, always be a good boy, don't ever play with guns." Doberman789
ReplyDeleteThe jail tour wasn’t what I expected. But it was cool to get a little insight on what it actually is like on the inside. To see how the conditions are and what they actually do in jail instead of leaving it up to my own imagination and what I’d seen on TV. The pods were really cool what I expected to see was a lot of yelling and maybe a couple of people fighting but the exact opposite was happening. In the male pod everyone was either walking around or watching TV. In the female pod the women were playing cards and talking. I thought it was really eye opening to see what it was like inside the female division and how small their cell spaces were. I thought the schedule and rules for the inmates were a lot better than what they could’ve been. I like how the superintendent explained how the rules worked because I originally thought the inmates didn’t get to do anything but they have simple very simple rules. If they disobey a rule they get a privilege taken away and I think that’s pretty reasonable. I’m glad I got the opportunity to tour the jail. Believe012
ReplyDeleteI'm very glad I was able to make it to the tour. I think we all have the curiosity of what the inside of a jail looks like and I appreciate the opportunity to go see inside. The booking area was a little different than I expected. It was interesting to see all the different hall ways and rooms. I would easily get lost in there. One hall way did remind me of school which I thought was funny. I thought it was really awesome to go upstairs and see the pods from the cops perspective. It didn't surprise me that people were playing games or walking, but I didn't quit expect there to be a t.v. in the pods. The pods are small when you put 10 people in there for a long period of time. Its a big eyeopener when you realize that these people never leave their pods. They stay in their pods to eat, sleep, shower, go to the bathroom, and even for visits. The fact that visits are done electronically now it huge. This takes away a big social factor between the inmates and their friends or family. While a at the same time it makes it easier to make visits without an appointment. The so called "outside" area was a shock. Its so confined without any real characteristic of the outside world. I wouldn't see why people would go out there except for the change of scenery after being in there for so long. Once you really absorb the fact that these people stay in the same small pod for months to years at a time it really makes you never want to be in that situation. I could definitely see a sociological perspective of the jail when our guide started to tell us of the stringer groups of people. When they know of a close group of people coming in or forming they separate them. People are stronger when in a group and feeding off of peer pressure. If you get people by themselves they become weaker and start to show you who they really are. This keeps a lot of people safe and makes more people think about what they've done and how they plan to fix it. Officers have acquired a bad rep recently due to the media but this visit has shown that they treat everyone equally. The police officers do not wish to see the inmates leave and go back to their old habits, they try their best to teach them and hopefully get them on a better path. VT012
ReplyDeleteThe whole experience was surreal. I was extremely interested, but at the same time I felt a little sad. I understand that they are there for a purpose and to serve time. I guess it was just sad to see so many people with their life on hold. I think the system of the jail was extremely interesting. In a way they have a miniature society in there. They have authority figures, rules and regulations, and people who have gained jobs because of trust.. "trustees". I'm sure there are postitive and negative influences from the people around you in your pods. I thought that the superintendent was really nice and covered all the information and questions very well. I asked him questions about the medical department out of curiosity. (That is my job field). He told me that they intern about 25 nurses a year, which is good for the students and for the jail/inmates. Overall I enjoyed the tour and I was glad we were given the opportunity to visit. -Jakku012
ReplyDeleteThis experience was really eye-opening to me. I did not think it would be as intriguing as it was. I particularly like the part where we got to go into one of the pods and cells to see what living conditions the inmates are living in. They have pretty good conditions for being criminals. It was nothing like I imagined the inside of a jail. I thought for a fact the inmates would be yelling and screaming at us. Starting fights to show off. It was the complete opposite actually. They were walking and hanging out very calmly. There were people watching tv, playing card games, there were even girls doing each others hair. They were not even mad at each other or anyone else. The trustees were doing the jobs they are given in a peaceful manner. I was not expecting this behavior from the inmates. Our tour guide was amazing at explaining the process of booking and processing the inmates to jail. He seemed very calm and collected. It made me realize I am majoring in the right direction. However; it made me rethink what I wanted to be when I am finished with school. I want to be a corrections officer.
ReplyDeleteExtreme456
Honestly I just figured oh it's a jail what I see on TV is what it is and I've seen it all before. But I can honestly say that it was very interesting and an eye opener for me. In a way I started to rethink my major it was that interesting. I am majoring in nursing and I can honestly see myself working in the medical department. What really stood out to me is it wasn't as bad as I thought. The inmates actually had more freedom than I imagined. I'm sure after a while just being in that small space it can get to you. The fact that they do have a tv, games, room to workout, and a phone in there for visitation is love. I imagined just cement and bars and nothing else. I must say that being able to look down into the pics to see the interaction between the inmates was the highlight of the tour. I really got a sense of their daily moments. With them not being able to see us looking into their pods was good as well, just knowing that they weren't able to see the officers moves that watches their every move. I'm glad I was able to make the tour because I almost did not show up. It was very informative and I left with a different outlook on things. Pinky012
ReplyDeleteSome of the more technical stuff I already knew just from watching TV and hearing about it from people I know who have been there before on both sides of it. However I did not know about how little health care may be available to most people without pouring one of the only major extra sources of money you have into it. Other than the…interesting aroma from the toilets the overall living conditions were much better than expected. But that was one thing we were told as we progressed through, multiple times in multiple ways. It seems that the cleanliness and overall health of the facility and people in it was a source of pride for the people working there. The trustee system was very incentivizing for good behavior; staying out of their cell later, dvd players, and access to cleaner clothes are major perks when that is nearly all you have around you. During the Q&A however I learned why body cameras aren’t so easy to use…money and excessive legislation. Their policy of mental health evaluation and counseling during solitary is something I was very glad to see though, I had never heard of that unless someone was suicidal before. –Pasta012
ReplyDeleteI was surprised too at what he said it takes to be able to have the body cameras. At the same time you would think that with all of the things surrounding officers in the media right now all the departments would find a way to make it happen. I live in a small town and our officers have them so I'm not sure why the city or jail could not have them. I also recall him saying they have to keep everything that's recorded for a certain amount of time which takes up a lot of space. That must be something in the legislation because I wouldn't see why there would be a need to keep a recording unless something actually happened. I can also definitely see why you would want one being on the officers side too, like he said when an inmate tries to say an officer said or did something they didn't. If most officers are more then willing to have them it just shows the good ones who have nothing to hide and the bad ones who do or have bad intentions. Deacon012
DeleteWhen I fist learned we were going to a jail i wasn't comfortable with the idea because of what i have seen on Beyond Scared Straight and Lock down. I thought that the inmates were going to be crazy or something. I have to say though it was a good experience and great to learn about. One thing I can say is that I will NEVER go to jail. It looks so depressing and not like home. I know its not suppose to be like home,I just wouldn't be able to do it.It didn't look like what i thought it would. For some reason i thought it would be dirty, maybe because a lot of bad people live there or something. Neverson012
ReplyDeleteI just have to say beyond scared straight is one of the best shows also that is the only real look into a jail I have experienced before the jail tour. The jail is definitely a lot different from home. I thought the jail was very informative and I think of it differently from what I used too. Godzilla012
DeleteI think that that was an excellent presentation given to us to see first hand how our culture deals with offenders. It was an awesome tour that I am proud to be apart of. It really opened up my mind on how I thought jail was really like compared to what I seen with my own eyes. However, I did not like how the only real daily face to face communication for the inmates were other inmates. I also did not like seeing that the inmates could not physically see the visitors. I feel like seeing the visitors on a screen is not as good as seeing them in person. And I did hear the man when he said that the technology way is going a lot better then the old way, but we are humans. We need that physical face to face contact with the people we love. Not on a web cam like a long distance relationship over seas.
ReplyDelete-Ibanez012
I would think that if the prisoners were to see visitor after visitor on tours such as these, or the guards there would be more reason for them to act out; like trying to distract the guard or impress a female visitor. I do agree with you on the physical contact, but only on the conjugal visits. Being a jail and trying to keep all prisoners happy by seeing their families or loved ones has to be nuts maintaining that, similar to what the sheriff said. I don’t agree with only a web-based visiting system so long as all inmates are able to have the chance during those busy times, especially when the jail’s population is almost 700. - StrongArm789
DeleteAs someone who wants to go into the criminal justice career field it really opened up my eyes. That was the very first jail tour I have taken and I was not too impressed. I thought that after college I would apply at the jail. I have changed my mind after the other day. It was not what I had expected it to be. I would not want to work from a desk watching inmates on cameras during my whole shift. There was no life in and throughout the jail. What I mean is I took the tour at the juvenile detention center and there was murals and uplifting posters on the wall to encourage the teens. I did not see anything like that at the jail. However I did see the 9/11 mural, but that wasn't uplifting. I know jail is suppose to be an adult time out center, but I feel like we should at least try to encourage the people who need it to get their life on track where it should be.
ReplyDelete-Ibanez789
I learned a lot of very cool things from my trip to the jail. It was, in a way very sobering to be there. Jail is not at all like it is depicted in movies or T.V. shows, I can read about it all I want in textbooks but, the reality of what jail is can not be depicted on a television screen or on the pages of a book. As I walked through the jail I had the opportunity to observe some prisoners in their cells. This was very eye opening, it had never hit me that moment that, those cells were where those prisoners lived 24/7 until they had served their whole sentence which, for some, is as much as 364 days. Medical issues and court dates are the main reasons that the prisoners are allowed to leave their cells, which is different that what I thought. I had always assumed that prisoners were allowed to roam around during the day, but no, the are confined to a very small place daily. Another thing that interested me about this tour is how our guide, told us that most people find jail time to be harder than prison time, mainly because there are less program available to the prisoners in prison. In jail the sentences have to be less than 365 days and if someone makes bail they are out of there, so that makes it very hard to start programs to give the prisoners more things to do. I was at the jail for all of two hours touring the facility and that was enough time for me to know that, that is a place I never want to end up. Piglet456
ReplyDeleteGoing into this "field trip" I was super excited to see everything how the media portrayed what jail would be like. The bared cells, riots, armed to the teeth security guards but I received none of that in fact what I really received was a lot greater than any new documentary or movie could have ever shown. I realized that putting someone in a dark hole for months at a time isn't the answer to creating a functioning citizen to help their community in fact you create an even more hostile more aggressive criminal. Our tour guy (whos name I can't remember) said it all "any job in the criminal justice field is 95% talking and socializing with people around you". So in reality that means treat everyone with respect you'll get farther in life through a conversation then through the barrel of a gun. This point goes all the way down the chain of command to the security guards that don't carry anything but a radio to the sheriff himself. Being in the cells just made me surprised on how there isn't more fights being in such a small block with 10 to 20 0ther guys or girls is outstanding. And to see that they don't have as many fights as everyone realizes really goes to show you how well the rules go in jail cause the prisoners only have so much they're not going to lose their privileges over something stupid...not saying that some don't but not as many as I thought starting out. But when the tour came to the end our guide asked whos interested in going into the corrections field probably 75% of the group raised their hands and it surprised me cause I wouldn't want no where near that job mainly because I wanna be out there catching the bad guys not watching them. And I'd have to move to Peoria county to work there so I think I'll pass. But my respect still goes out to those who work in that corrections.
ReplyDeleteBikeMaker456
My thoughts on the jail visit made me feel for the people locked up. I seem to put myself and other people shoes so I can make the right choice in future terms. Its always to sides to a story and the decision they made put them into that place. It must be hard to do time in there with that weird smell. But for better terms about the jail they are helping out the law side and the public side. By keeping the people that shouldn’t be out in the world and also by helping out the law by sharing information throughout the system. They collect so much information like an interview. Also i didn’t know inmates didn’t have right to privacy and if the board wanted to they can put cameras into all the cells. That can be different they can prevent rapes and fights and murders that happen everyday in the type of society that live in. I think they should that on in more dangerous prisons or jails around the world.
ReplyDeleteBikeLife456
The PCJ tour was what I expected, due to attending it last semester during my 110 class. I thought it was interesting how the Superintendent said that the main thing he harps on his officers is respect for the inmates. I think it's interesting the social stigma that gets placed on the inmates and as a result can show in police work. That was something that really stood out to me. Integrity is the big puppy on the block in the law enforcement and correctional world because this is not an occupation where lying is an option because these are real people and they all require respect regardless of their crimes. When we went through the two-way mirror, I had observed that the inmates seemed to find anything to keep them occupied either reading or watching tv since there isn't a whole lot you can do when you incarcerated. I don't generally like to use the word assume, but it appeared that some of the people being housed have been to PCJ many times. Relating back to the classroom, rehabilitation was emphasized a good amount of time from GED and other programs, certifications and even through religion. Jails are different from prisons because jails can house you up to 364 days opposed to a prison which can hold a person longer than 1 year as a result programs have to be pushed away due to it not being a good business practice for costs.
ReplyDeleteMental health was another interesting aspect of the facility. The guide said that almost everyone takes medicines of some kind as well as seek mental heath from the nurse's station. The facility doubles as a mental health hospital and a jail. The facility has declined on inmates having a head count of 300+ opposed to the 600's that the facility used to be at. I was surprised how much Summer Camp brings in and how the facility spent $700,000 on just transportation to get those convicted to the facility. The cost to house someone in this facility was about $63 with the population count of 300+ which I found shocking since there is so much going on that the number was a low as it is.
All in all, this was very eye opening and I have considered this as a potential job opportunity once I finish my schooling to get my foot in the door. I look forward to going back on the tour during the fall if the opportunity is still available. There is always something new you learn or over looked.
Palmdaddy789
I would first like to say that I thought the man giving the tour was very well educated and knowledgeable about not only the facility but all aspects of his career and people seeking that type of career. I was really glad to hear when he said he treated everyone the same and that yes bad people go to jail but sometimes good people who make bad decisions go to jail. I'm glad some people understand this because I was one of those people. I have personally spent time there several years ago due to a bad decision, so I already knew some of what to expect and what we were going to see as far as the facility itself. I know like he said they have a lot of return repeat offenders but at the same time I believe people can make mistakes and turn around and learn from them to do better. I feel I am an example of one. I did my short time and did not return. Due to the fact they had removed smoking there also, I was able to quit smoking while I was in there too. So I feel like sometimes a bad situation can result in positive outcome. I was also intrigued to hear about their punishment program. Its almost the same as dealing with children, you can't take away everything because they have nothing to earn back or as he said nothing to lose. I understand their reasoning on no longer allowing them in the yard in good weather but not sure if I'd agree on that. I would think that by itself would cause even greater mental problems, not being able to have any sunlight. I agree with him on shutting down summer camp if its costing all of us tax payers what he claims it is. I also think it great that they offer GED and food service so they have some sort of education and can get a job when they get out, because like he said its survival. If you cant get a job your going to go back to doing whatever you were doing before, most likely illegal and its just a vicious cycle, just to survive. I was disturbed to hear that the freedom of information act allows prisoners to get information on other inmates. I don't feel they should be able to get this info without at least a good excuse or reason why they need it. Overall it was very interesting and I learned quite a bit. Deacon012
ReplyDeleteThe jail tour was informative on what went down. When I think of people in jail, I think that they are bad since they are behind bars. When he said that they are good people in there too because of a bad mistake they made, it gave me an understanding that they are not all bad. Seeing the prisoners in the cells makes me not want to make a stupid mistake because I could not handle being in such a tight place. I remember how I used to be sent into my room as a kid and I would through tantrums because of being in a certain space not being able to leave. Plus, the rotting smell of the women block made me want to throw up a little and I don’t know what I would do having to smell that all day. I was hoping that we would see the bad criminals because the ones we did see were trustees and the well behaved, it would have been nice to see the other side get both points of views. Overall, the sheriff made the tour interesting, providing information throughout the whole tour and all questions that were asked.
ReplyDeletebamboo456
The PCJ tour was very interesting. To know I got to take a tour around the jail was the coolest thing ever I am very thankful for that opportunity.To me that jail doesn't look that bad at all its very clean and high maintenance even with the slight smell.Also I have mad respect for the superintendent,it takes a strong individual to hold a job like that. they treat the inmates like human beings just because they mad a bad decision they don't label them as the crime they committed don't what it was.They make them earn everything which i think it awesome, it teaches them discipline and lets them know everything is nit handle to them just like in the real world. You only can be in jail up to a year if your not awaiting on trial.Some inmates tried they hardest to stay in the county because its closer to home they have more access to people.The media give the good thing about the jail or how it super expensive. I really looking forward to working there.SHAYLAVON789
ReplyDeleteThis tour was very interesting and informative. I never knew how much work it takes to run a jail. The superintendent was very knowledgeable about the jail and law enforcement in general. The Q and A part at the end was really nice because there was no question he couldn't answer. I always thought the jails would look like they do on TV, but this one is different. It was much nicer and had a GED program. I didn't know that you got as many phone calls as you want because it always shows on TV that you only get one. I loved how they took a lot of pride in their medical services there. It showed that they treat the inmates like humans even though they committed a crime.
ReplyDeleteCountryGirl789
The medical services they have are very important and are very well done with is a doctor 24/7. The has the GED program which is a good way for inmates to grow while they are in jail. And it will benefit them after they get out.
DeleteJfl789
The media makes the jail seem completely different that t really is. They make is seem like their is always fights and bad things going on when in reality they don't happen very often. I agree with you on it being a positive thing of all of the programs the inmates are offered. Their main goal is to keep the inmates from coming back and these programs will help them reach that goal. dragons789
DeleteI agree that I never really knew how the jail system or buildings worked. You really just go by what you see in movies or what you hear about it. You never really know though until you are there and it is nice to learn things like this to be more aware of what goes on in the world.Bengals012
DeleteThe corrections system is very interesting in the sense of this is the place were all kinds of people go and it doesn’t matter what the crime really. Jail is a simple process if you stop and think about it. There are only a few different options when you are going to jail. Booking to bail or you get to stay there until the court date. There is more to it but that is the basic premise of it. The fact that we only about 347 people in jail right now is a fantastic think. Especially considering the fact that just three years ago that there were over 600 people. The other interesting fact about the tour was to hear about the busiest weekend of the year. Which was memorial weekend or summer camp. Which they get a lot of drug offenses from.
ReplyDeleteJfl789
I agree with you it's so interesting to know so many people from different backgrounds are there for not all the same reason but serving the same purpose. Some people that are in there are simply just got caught on one of their bad days, Then you have the people who actually live the life of crime. That's so important for people to remember that not everyone who is in jail is a bad person. -dicaprio789
DeleteThe tour was very informative and interesting. The media makes it seem like it is a crazy place where people are always getting in fights and bad things are always happening. In reality fights don't happen very often and most of the time it is a calm place. One point I liked that was made is the main rule they have in the jail is respect. He said that the officer treat the inmates with respect and expect the same in return and that if you treat them with respect they will be more likely to help you out in the future while investigating a crime. I also thought it was good that they had GED programs for the inmates since a majority of them probably never finished high school. Also I liked that they had the food classes for them to prepare them for when they get out to find a job so they don't end up back in jail. Another thing that shocked me was the the drop in inmates. He said 3 years ago they had over 600 inmates and they were having to sleep on the floor and they barely had enough room for them all and now they are down to about 300. Thats a good sign because it shows that the jail and prison populations are dropping and it will help with the costs of running the prison. dragons789
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed the tour. The media really does blow the whole idea out of proportion though. Brian said that there are rarely any fights there and when there are it is over something like a card game. I think its good for the inmates to get a program like a GED. Godzilla789
DeleteI recall taking a tour of the jail a long time ago. I would say that was during 7th grade and my fingerprints trumped everything because I apparently can’t recall anything else about the inmates themselves. As I type this I do remember seeing prisoners’ contraband in a case. That consisted of random drug paraphernalia and a few shank-like objects. This trip was exceptionally different. Now having learned about the system itself it was easier to identify certain aspects of what was going on. The holding cells past the garage area held an individual who pressed his face against the glass window while he uttered something unintelligible with his middle finger raised in the air. Below him was another person sleeping on a narrow bench. I thought to myself, this might get interesting but then he just sat back and chilled out. It was fascinating to learn how the different processes worked, from booking to detaining and even for awaiting trial. Once we entered the holding area we got to see the inmates and how they relate inside of their areas. Between pacing back and forth, reading, and just having casual conversation, it was still a bit surreal to see. I personally could never imagine being locked up for long periods of time, especially if I were in a case where I was innocent. The monitoring area was probably my favorite spot of the tour. I like the overseeing qualities that it holds, and not to be to disconcerting but it is almost like observing a psychological study. As a side note it was strange to see two individuals who were working for the department. I didn’t want to stop them from doing what they were doing but it was nice to see familiar faces working on the force. Overall, the tour was great and I appreciate the time that we got to have inside. - StrongArm789
ReplyDeleteI felt very trapped inside, and I knew I wouldn't do well if I were in that situation. Since I am claustrophobic, I would probably act out and lose my privileges. This would lead to an even less desirable visit. I know that I will not get myself in a situation like that.
ReplyDeleteI find incarceration rates to be completely out of proportion. I saw nearly an even number of black to white inmates, and I know the ratio in Peoria is closer to 80/20. Our society cannot account for this difference, and we need to do more to balance this. If it begins in the neighborhood, we need to make the changes while we still can influence our children to go in a different direction.
I've been in jail before, but I come from a different background. I had all the bail money I needed, as well as the best attorneys. Therefore, I have a clean record and a better chance at changing my future. Without this money and support, my result would have been completely different.
I think the visit 'scared me straight.' I appreciate the hands-on experience, and I was reminded of how little control we have of the outcome.
OICU8 012
The jail tour was extremely informative for me, and very helpful seeing as how I have hopes of starting off my career there. I was very shocked to learn that the officers do not carry guns inside of the jail. It makes sense now, but it was still surprising. And the fact that only a handful of officers carry tasers was surprising as well. It's a bit frightening, but again, it does make sense. It shows respect for the inmates, and also doesn't give the officers the opportunity to harm if the situation occurred. The first person I saw in the jail happened to be when we were passing through booking. He was in the holding cell and was walking in circles, as I passed him he just looked at me and smiled. The second set of people I saw was right after this, these inmate's reactions reminded me of those of the juveniles I saw last semester. They were screaming and hollering at the girls, trying to get our attention. This actually answered a question that I had, which was whether the inmates at the jail would act more mature, since in age they were mature than the boys at the juvenile detention center. Seeing the inmates in their pods was strange. We watched them through a 2 way glass, making the inmates seem almost like lab rats. They had no clue that we were there, but yet we were standing up there studying them. The inmates were actually allowed a lot more than what I thought they were. They had televisions and vcd's and dvd players. The trustees had a lot more freedom, as much as you can when you're incarcerated I suppose. At one point we were headed upstairs to view the women from the security room, and the trustees came around the corner. They didn't have an officer in front of them, I assume the officer was behind them, but it definitely showed they have more allowances than the others. We didn't get to view the higher level inmates housed there, because we didn't want to get them riled up for the night shift officers. I thought the tour was very good and reinforced my desire to start off there.
ReplyDelete-Leilani789
This was my first time being in a jail, and honestly I didn’t know what to expect. Television and movies portray it as a place of violence and hostility, but I didn’t see that. One of the quotes from our tour guide that stuck out to me was about how many of the people in jail are good people who made bad decisions. I thought about how easy it would be to make one mistake and end up in the same place that the inmates are in. The cells were small and the one I went inside of smelled, and the restrictions on what you can and can’t do would drive me insane. I found walking above the blocks to be very interesting because it gave me an idea of how the inmates behave when they don’t know they’re being watched by someone other than the guards. The only one who actually did see us was at the beginning, and he just kept looking at us through the windows and hollering; I wonder if more of them would have acted like this if they could see us. Overall, this tour was very informative, and I think that if more young people went on these tours it would really show where crime really gets you, instead of how glamourous television and movies can portray it.
ReplyDeleteBlues456
I really appreciate your post! This was a very good representation of what jail really is. I totally agree! I liked the way the jail was set up so we could see down in each cellblock without the inmates knowing we were there. I also agree with the tour guides comment. I am living proof of a "good" person who made a very dumb decision. I was placed on probation and that has been the best thing to ever happen to me. If i could have visited this jail when I was young and stupid, I believe it would have influenced me to change my life a lot earlier on. I'm a strong believer in the fact, most people don’t think they will end up in a jail or "get caught" when they are doing what they know is wrong. This can and does happen to people everyday. If we could all see it from the inside like we did on this tour, I think more people would think before they break the law. Twal456
DeleteI thought that this was a very good experience and I feel like it educates people in a way that you wouldn't really think. It was weird seeing a person in the holding room when we first started our tour. When we started to actually tour the pods it was very interesting You could see what they were doing and you could tell that you never want to go to jail because you will be in that particular pod for as long as you are there and that would be awful to never see green grass for a year. When we went down and actually got in a pod it made you hate it even more it was an awful smell and I couldn't imagine just sitting in there and doing that for almost a year yes you can watch TV and play cards but everything you do is in that pod, you sleep there eat there and shower there it just is so hard for me to imagine being confined in that one place for a lengthy period of time. It was nice to go into the gym and have a discussion about what we saw after the tour and be able to ask any additional questions that we had. i thought that it was a great experience. Bengals012
ReplyDeleteI absolutely agree the experience does educate you in a different way. We grow up portraying jail as something else and then when you get to see first hand how everything works it changes your perspective. That is a place I would never want to be. You are confined to one place or area I should say for how ever long your there. The smell was unbearable I cant believe they have to smell that everyday. I guess at the end of the day if you make a bad decision then jail is somewhere you could end up.Blue012
DeleteI always love these tours, one because I am a criminal justice major and its the line of work I want to go into. it's definitely something very different that you don't get to see everyday. It's somewhere I know I would never survive, it's a whole other world. It's interesting to see the different types of people who come in and out of jails, coming from the repeat offender, or the person that just got caught on their bad days. Jails to me are like a big story, there are so many different types of people from all different backgrounds who come in and out of their every single day. And just like he had said not everyone who comes in there are bad people, which I think is very important for people to remember. I think it's really awesome that you have certain jailers who can become trusties, it really gives you another way of looking at jails. Knowing that they aren't just in there to rot they can actually work on themselves while they are locked up. It's cool to see them get their privileges buying their things and even getting DVD players is something i didn't even know that they allowed in jails. It's also hard for me to imagine being locked in one space for a really long time, not being able to see the grass or the seasons change I can only imagine how hard it is. All and All it's always a great experience deff something you don't get to do everyday and something you really cannot forget. -dicaprio789
ReplyDeleteComing from the sociological side of it, it's very interesting to see how different the male and the female population act. You always see the female population working together more as a "family" than you do the male population. You go where the men are living and I feel like the closest contact that you get is them playing cards together. But when you go and check out the female population you see them braiding each others hair, and getting up close and personal. It's very interesting to me to see the ways they act toward one another especially in an setting like so. We all form in different ways how we know how to survive, especially in a jail setting it's all about finding a way to do your time and getting back out there in the real world.Sociology and criminal justice go hand and hand with each other and viewing the jail tour from both sides really opens up one's eyes. It's nothing like you see on tv, the media and tv shows portray jails to be wild and nasty but in reality (well some of them aren't as clean as peoria county) but in general it seemed like a really "nice" place unlike a lot of other facilities. -dicaprio012
ReplyDeleteIt wasn't a bad experience for me. I really enjoyed the tour. I had no idea that it was going to be so much different from what you see on the television. Growing up jail was always portrayed as such a dangerous place on television vs. real life. I had no idea that the jail was basically 95 percent male and the other female. It seemed to have a lot of male staff vs. female staff. I did not know that all you do each day is stay in your own pod all day 24/7. I found that interesting. It was nice to watch how everyone interacted with each other because those are the only people they get to see everyday besides family. I liked the system that they have set up for inmates so that if they have a complaint they are able to send an email and someone will get back to them. Overall it seemed like a "nice" place and the staff really care about how they treat there inmates and they value respect. which I found was very nice because some people don't care and from what I saw they absolutely do.Blue012
ReplyDeleteGoing to the jail was an experience. I had never been inside a jail before but I have seen footage from inside them. It was quite the experience and I learned a lot from the visit. I always thought that they'd be bringing in drunks on a daily basis despite the time of year. But it was really cool to find out the number of incarcerations go down in the fall and winter months. It was really cool to go up into the control rooms n watch the monitors and inmates through the glass. It showed just how boring that part of the job must be. Being inside the female pod was an experience too. It made me feel confined in such a small space it made me not want to be in there. To then find out that the inmates would never see grass during their time there really made me not to ever be there. However, I wouldn't mind being a cop there at the jail. As a start to my career it would give me a way to deal with the suspects before arresting them for what ever their crime was first hand by their behavior upon arrival to the jail. Learning about the relationship the staff and inmates have really shows how much the staff cares for the inmates and how the inmates show respect back in return. Introducing video visits to the jail I think was a nice idea as it does knock down waiting times for visitors which moves things along quicker. All in all it was a great experience and was glad i went. DeadMan456
ReplyDeleteThis was my first experience in a facility like this. I personally enjoyed the tour very much. What I saw in there is different from what I would usually see on TV. From what you would experience from television I expected it to be more violent than what it actually was. I was surprised when he said that the only fights they ever really get are over card games and that doesn't happen often. I enjoyed being able to see the inmates doing their own thing. It kind of reminded me of a zoo. We stood behind impenetrable glass while they were trapped and just doing their own thing. It seemed like a clean facility besides the putrid smell in some parts. I thought the jail was a very professional environment that they take very seriously. The staff seemed very professional and did their job even though we were intruding. Godzilla789
ReplyDeleteThis was my first time in a facility like this. From a sociological point of view I enjoyed the tour very much. I thought it was very interesting when Brian said that some people thought the jail would be worse than prison. He explained that in prison you have more programs that you are able to join which is a very good idea and which is very good for the inmate. The jail I felt like was a very good environment for the inmates. They were treated fairly and got all the essentials that they need. If the inmates are good then they can get special privileges like staying up late or more time with the TV or some jails will give them an extra sandwich. They really treat the women and the men pretty different. The men are allowed to have a cellmate while the women are only allowed one to a cell. I feel like the jail could be a positive influence on some of these peoples lives even though they are criminals they are here to get help and be rehabilitated. Godzilla012
ReplyDeleteI agree with what you had to say. I also agreed with our tour guide when he talked about prison being a better stay then at a jail. For these inmates, any constructive activities are looked upon highly. Things such as laundry and cooking in the kitchen. When you’re locked in a cell/cell block, you must long for any type of physical activity! There were inmates literally walking back and forth, over and over again just to have something to do and get some exercise. I think prison is more desirable location for most as well. I also believe both locations force a positive influence on change in the lives of these criminals, so that they do not return. Twal012
DeleteI really enjoyed touring the jail. The tour guide Brian was very informative and a very respectable roll model. His job is not easy, and I thought his calm and collected demeanor was impressive. Seeing the county jail inside and out was a great learning experience. Like I've heard it said before, the books have nothing on real life experience. I thought the jail had interesting sociological aspects intertwined in the inmate’s daily lives. They exercised, ate, played cards, and watched T.V. together. The inmates used social interaction to make the time go by. It was like a small-secluded community in each pod. I like the fact human beings can adapt to they're surroundings and make do. In my opinion the worst position one may be placed in the jail would be a secure housing unit secluded from the population. When you’re alone in a small room with only your thoughts, you will literally go crazy. The guide, Brian, explained how people who get secluded for bad behavior must have mental health checks everyday because suicide completion rates increase when taken out of the general population. I can see this being an issue. I thought it was also interesting how the intake process is questionable in a sense that the arrested people might be alcoholics or heroin addicts. The medical team at the jail must be conscious of this. You cant die from heroin withdraws, however, you can die from alcohol withdraws. Twal012
ReplyDeleteWhen it comes to criminal justice, the jail aspect of corrections is completely necessary. While touring the jail I noticed a lot of different positive influences. Our tour guide explained the privileges inmates might receive for good behavior. This influences they're behavior in an everyday setting because they don't want to loose valuable privileges such as T.V., commissary, bedding, and visit time with outsides over a video kiosk. It looked like little kids being punished for breaking the rules. Like mother said, no T.V. for you because you have been bad. I see this as a humiliating tactic. These people must already be embarrassed for getting locked up in the first place. The rules and regulations implemented on the general population of the jail is very necessary to command a higher level of cooperation. By following the rules set in front of them in jail, they are at a better chance to follow the laws when they get out. The corrections facility was cold, and each pod was under physical and video surveillance. One could not do much without it being seen. I think this jail had many positive influences on the inmates to make sure they change they're lives and don't wind up in the same situation again. Twal456
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